Manchester United are the latest club to show concrete interest in signing Olympique Lyonnais prodigy Rayan Cherki, as per reports.
Cherki has enjoyed a tremendous campaign at Lyon, having scored 12 goals and registered an incredible 20 assists in all competitions for his boyhood club this term.
The 21-year-old, known for his close control and dribbling ability, brilliantly spearheaded the Ligue 1 giants’ attack by playing all across the frontline.
United witnessed his talents first-hand in the Europa League quarter-finals, as the Frenchman delivered a sensational performance and came very close to ending Ruben Amorim’s side’s European glory hopes.
A report in Lyon’s local newspaper Le Progres (via Sport Witness) suggests Cherki’s exploits have sparked interest from the Red Devils.
Le Progres state: “Clearly, many English clubs are now keeping an eye on him, the latest of which is Manchester United, who recently saw what the young Lyon player is made of.”
United are determined to sign the France U21 international, so much so that they could pay “well beyond” his initial asking price if a bidding war ensues.
“One source even points out that the Old Trafford club isn’t necessarily price-conscious. He adds that the bidding could rise around Rayan, ‘well beyond 25 million,’” the report adds.
If United win the Europa League and qualify for next season’s Champions League, they might be able to be more flexible with their spending, but a disappointing result against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao could have a catastrophic impact on their transfer budget.
In that situation, it is unlikely INEOS would overspend to bring Cherki to Old Trafford ahead of his other suitors.
Further, United are also set to sign Wolves star Matheus Cunha, who is expected to play behind the striker under Amorim. Cherki also thrives in the same area.
As such, the arrival of another wide playmaker might be contingent upon sales.
Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images
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Vishal Singh
Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
