Manchester City among EIGHT European clubs interested in Standard Liege and Morocco wonderkid

Manchester City among EIGHT European clubs interested in Standard Liege and Morocco wonderkid

• Standard Liège’s Ilian Hadidi is the latest name linked with a high-profile move to the Etihad Stadium as City’s global scouting network focuses on the North African market.
• Manchester City face a significant battle for the 17-year-old’s signature, with Borussia Dortmund and Ajax also identifying the Moroccan U17 international as a target.
• Hadidi’s performances in Belgium, where he has netted six goals in 17 appearances for Liège’s U18 side this season, have made him one to watch ahead of the U17 AFCON tournament in May.

Etihad Stadium talent spotters are showing an interest in one of the emerging names in Moroccan football, according to new reports.

The interest comes at a time when Manchester City are continuing to pursue securing the world’s best talent before their market value skyrockets, and increasingly so under the guidance of their new Director of Football Hugo Viana.

City have seemingly intensified efforts in the Belgian Pro League, with Ilian Hadidi – a versatile midfielder capable of operating as a deep-lying playmaker or more advanced – is seen as a player who could fit the technical profile required for a Pep Guardiola system.

The 17-year-old appears to be at a critical juncture in his career, with his current club Standard Liège desperate to tie him down to a professional contract extension and a pathway to the first team.