Manchester City are stepping up their pursuit of one of Ligue 1’s most exciting young talents—Rayan Cherki. According to Italian transfer expert Nicolo Schira, the Premier League giants have officially opened talks with Olympique Lyonnais in an effort to secure the 21-year-old midfielder’s services.
With a contract offer that reportedly runs until 2030, City are not only investing in youth—they’re also planning for a post-De Bruyne era, and they see Cherki as a cornerstone of their future.
The timing of City’s approach is strategic. Cherki has just confirmed his departure from Lyon, following their 2-0 victory over Angers, where he delivered a performance that symbolized his development and maturity. His departure from Lyon has long been anticipated, but the fact that it’s becoming a reality adds urgency to the clubs in pursuit.
Cherki ended the 2024/25 season in sensational form, racking up 12 goals and 20 assists in 44 appearances. These numbers have turned heads not only in England but across Europe. Yet it’s Manchester City who are making the first definitive move.
With Kevin De Bruyne reportedly finalizing a high-profile transfer to Napoli, City have wasted no time seeking a dynamic replacement who can fill the creative void in midfield. Cherki fits the mold: technical, unpredictable, and confident on the ball—everything Pep Guardiola looks for in a playmaker.
According to reports, Cherki’s release clause ranges between €22.5 million and €40 million, depending on the terms negotiated. While Liverpool, Manchester United, and even Atalanta have shown interest, City appear to be in the driver’s seat, especially after Guardiola’s personal intervention.
Yes, Pep Guardiola has allegedly spoken with the French-Algerian star directly, outlining his potential role at the Etihad. It’s understood that the manager envisions Cherki as a future No. 10, central to City’s tactical flexibility and creativity in the final third.
Sources suggest that Lyon are open to the deal—not out of choice, but out of financial necessity. The French club, once a powerhouse in Ligue 1, has struggled economically in recent years. A sale of this magnitude could help stabilize the club ahead of their squad rebuild.
City, on the other hand, want the deal wrapped up before the FIFA Club World Cup, where they aim to showcase their evolving lineup on the global stage. Bringing in Cherki before the tournament would give him time to gel with the squad and prepare for a breakthrough year under Guardiola.
Behind the scenes, City’s technical staff have been tracking Cherki for over two seasons. Their analysis reportedly rates his vision, flair, and agility as top-tier, with a ceiling that rivals any young talent in Europe.
While his flair is undeniable, critics have previously questioned Cherki’s consistency and defensive work rate. However, under Guardiola’s tutelage, many believe he can mature into a complete midfielder, much like Phil Foden or Bernardo Silva.
City fans will remember how similar questions were asked of Riyad Mahrez before his move from Leicester—and how he went on to become a crucial figure in City’s domestic and continental success.
If signed, Cherki will be joining a midfield already blessed with the talents of Rodri, Mateo Kovačić, Foden, and Silva, but the long-term vision clearly sees him taking the creative mantle left by De Bruyne.
For Cherki himself, this move represents the next big step. From being a Lyon prodigy to potentially starring in the Premier League, under the lights of the Etihad, his career trajectory could skyrocket if he adapts quickly.
Meanwhile, Lyon are said to be exploring replacements of their own, anticipating that City will meet the €40 million price tag. With Ligue 1 now seen as a launching pad for future stars, Cherki’s success could reinforce the French league’s status as a top exporter of talent.
Negotiations are ongoing, but with Pep’s approval and the player’s willingness, all signs point to a blockbuster summer move. Expect official confirmation soon if the financial and structural terms fall into place.
And so, another gem of French football prepares to leave his homeland in pursuit of glory. If all goes as planned, Rayan Cherki could be lighting up the Premier League in Manchester blue by the start of next season.
In a footballing world driven by tactical evolution and attacking ingenuity, City’s pursuit of Cherki is more than just another transfer—it’s a calculated investment in creativity, youth, and long-term dominance.
Stay tuned, because this is a saga that could reshape Manchester City’s midfield for the next half-decade.