Olympique Lyon’s decision to turn down Borussia Dortmund’s offer for Rayan Cherki may have frustrated the player, but it came with an unexpected financial bonus.
According to RMC Sport (cited by @lafonatebvb on X), Rayan Cherki’s contract includes a unique clause requiring Lyon to compensate him with €2.5 million whenever the club declines a transfer bid.
With Boruusia Dortmund making a concrete approach this winter, the 20-year-old now pockets a hefty sum despite remaining at the Groupama Stadium.
It remains unclear whether other clubs also submitted offers, but if they had, Rayan Cherki could have been in for an even bigger windfall. Lyon’s stance on keeping their talented playmaker may not have aligned with his wishes, but their financial obligation to him softened the blow.
For now, Rayan Cherki continues with the Ligue 1 side, earning not just his regular wages but also an extra payout—all thanks to a rejected bid.