After pulling the plug on a deal for Florian Wirtz, Manchester City are now focusing their efforts on signing Lyon’s dynamic playmaker Rayan Cherki, with a potential £25 million move on the cards.
City Shift Focus to French Talent
As per The Telegraph, Manchester City have set their sights on securing the services of Rayan Cherki, following their withdrawal from negotiations for Wirtz due to escalating costs. With Cherki already confirming his departure from Lyon this summer, City are keen to act fast and land the 21-year-old midfielder before rival clubs swoop in.
A Creative Spark for Guardiola’s Midfield
Manchester City, after successfully finishing the 2024-25 season in 3rd position just behind Arsenal, are entering a transitional phase, with many stars leaving. Kevin De Bruyne is reportedly ready to try a new team, while Jack Grealish’s future remains uncertain. However, Pep Guardiola is currently placing a high value on creative legs and boosting City’s attacking options, making Cherki, who is very versatile with good vision, the ideal fit.
Wirtz was initially City’s top target, and the club even began early talks with his representatives. However, the total financial package, which exceeded €100 million (£85 million), prompted the Citizens to exit the race, paving the way for Liverpool to become front-runners for the German star.
Cherki, meanwhile, presents a more financially viable alternative. It’s reported that Cherki has a release clause of just £20–25 million (€25–30 million), and this might end up being one of the transfer bargains of the summer window.
Rebuilding after a Disappointing Campaign
City are poised for a significant squad reshuffle after a campaign many have labeled the weakest of Guardiola’s reign. Alongside Cherki, the club is also negotiating a deal for AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders and has shown interest in Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White.
Battle Brewing for Cherki’s Signature
Manchester City might be the favorite in this race for Cherki, but it might not be as easy as thought, as other teams are also eyeing the French star. One known team keeping an eye on the situation is City’s rival, Manchester United, and other top clubs across Europe are also expected to join the race soon.
With his contract situation and skill set drawing widespread attention, Rayan Cherki is set to be one of the most talked-about young talents this summer. Whether he ends up at the Etihad or elsewhere, the Lyon starlet’s next move will undoubtedly make waves.
