What if Fernandez to Man City doesn’t happen?
Talk of City signing 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi has been rumbling all summer, and the club have reportedly held talks with the Moroccan, who would cost an estimated £85m.
Bouaddi is said to be keen on the move.
The teenager impressed at this summer’s World Cup after a starring role in Lille’s Champions League victory over Real Madrid in 2024 announced him on the big stage.
Bouaddi functions as a deep-lying conductor – much in the same vein as Rodri – and would complement summer signing Anderson, who is more of a box-to-box midfielder.
Taking into account the loss of Bernardo Silva, it is not just Rodri that City are trying to replace and, with 30 Ligue 1 appearances last season, Bouaddi possesses a level of experience beyond his age.
Another potential midfield signing is Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.
City have explored a potential move for England international Scott this summer.
The 22-year-old has rejected contract offers from the Cherries amid interest from other Premier League clubs, though his current deal does not expire until 2028 and the club have expressed their desire to keep him.
Bournemouth rejected a £64m bid from Chelsea for the midfielder last month and made it clear any further approaches would not be welcomed. Advances from Arsenal have also been knocked back.
Scott’s energy and ball-carrying ability suit Maresca’s preferred style of play – with a heavy emphasis on possession – while his passes into the box and ability to win duels make him an appealing option.
Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister also interests Maresca.
The Argentine is into the final two years of his contract at Anfield and has been a consistent presence in the Reds’ midfield during his time there, though he struggled for form during a troublesome 2025-26 season.
As a Premier League winner, Mac Allister would bring top-flight experience and be a ready-made candidate to slot into City’s midfield.