According to sources, Rayan Cherki, a midfielder who is keen to join Pep Guardiola’s team, has emerged as Manchester City’s top target to sign this summer. After a fantastic season in Ligue 1, Cherki has emerged as one of Europe’s most desirable properties.
The 21-year-old had a fantastic season, contributing 19 assists and 12 goals across all competitions. Given that Lyon only managed to finish in sixth place, he is now predicted to join a top European team.
Manchester United was originally thought to be Cherki’s destination after he scored two goals against them in the Europa League this season. But after missing out on European football, it is more likely that they will sign with their rivals, City.
A move to City is accelerating for Cherki, who was selected for the Ligue 1 team of the season due to his brilliant and inventive performances, according to French publication Foot Mercato.
Lyon set asking price for Ryan Cherki
According to the source, the team has decided to make Cherki their “priority” acquisition for the attacking midfield position in an attempt to replace Kevin De Bruyne, who left at the end of the current campaign. According to reports, Pep Guardiola is eager to sign the youngster and has already spoken with Pierre Sage, the previous manager of Lyon.
However, since Cherki just has a little more than a year left, a deal for him is probably going to be far less expensive. The 21-year-old’s contract reportedly had a £19 million release clause; however, those reports seem to be false. Instead, Lyon is hoping to recover a charge of almost €40 million (£33.7 million) for Cherki.
In other news, City is seeking more reinforcements as they negotiate a deal for Tijjani Reijnders with AC Milan in the center midfield. The Dutch midfielder has made a significant impact in Serie A this season, and Milan is requesting a price of over £60 million for him.
