Meanwhile, Liverpool and Manchester United are expected to drop out of the race because they are unwilling to pay a massive fee without receiving the player immediately.
Manchester United has pivoted to other targets like Neil El Aynaoui after missing out on Elliot Anderson, who joined Manchester City from Nottingham Forest for £116 million.
Financial Details and Expert Praise
Journalist Ben Jacobs discussed the details of Lille's financial expectations on talkSPORT's show The Window.
"This is a fascinating transfer story because Lille are prepared to sell, but they heavily favour a deal for 2027," said Ben Jacobs, transfer insider for talkSPORT.
Manchester City remains deeply involved in discussions alongside Arsenal and Chelsea despite their recent midfield reinforcements.
"Clubs, and Manchester City, have shown they are willing to at least discuss this," said Jacobs.
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Jacobs explained that teams willing to compromise on the arrival date would gain a significant financial advantage during negotiations.
"It's €80m at the moment, but could come down for those that say to Lille a loan back or pre-agreement," said Jacobs.
Teams that demand an instant arrival will face a much stiffer asking price from the French outfit.
"It's €100m for other clubs that want an immediate transfer, so that's going to be one to watch," said Jacobs.
Former World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit praised the technical and physical capabilities of the young midfielder on talkSPORT Breakfast.
"He's been one of the strongest young players in France," said Emmanuel Petit, football pundit.
