Inside Story: Rayan Cherki was close to joining PSG in 2024 before transfer fell apart

Manchester City midfielder Rayan Cherki came close to joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, with a deal reportedly worth around €15 million, including bonuses, nearly agreed before the transfer collapsed.

Cherki, now 23, was still at Olympique Lyonnais when PSG emerged as a potential destination. The attacking midfielder was reportedly enthusiastic about the prospect of moving to the French capital and even sent a lengthy voice message to PSG president Nasser al-Khelaïfi to express his excitement and gratitude.

However, the proposed transfer ultimately fell through after Borussia Dortmund entered the race, with the German club prepared to offer the Frenchman assurances over playing time.

Dortmund intervention changes the picture

Cherki had been placed on the transfer market by Lyon’s then-chairman, John Textor, who was seeking to raise funds at the time.

According to L’Équipe, Lyon and PSG had come close to finalising an agreement over a transfer worth approximately €15 million, including bonuses.

Dortmund’s intervention complicated the situation. Unlike PSG and coach Luis Enrique, the German club were reportedly willing to guarantee Cherki regular playing time, prompting the midfielder to reconsider his options.

Despite having two potential destinations, Cherki eventually joined neither club. Dortmund withdrew from the race because of internal disagreements, while PSG also pulled out after becoming frustrated by the player’s change of heart.

Cherki stays at Lyon before Manchester City move

With the proposed moves to PSG and Dortmund falling through, Cherki remained at Lyon and decided to extend his contract.

The new agreement included clauses that would allow him to leave the club a year later, paving the way for his eventual departure in 2025.

Manchester City subsequently secured his services for a reported fee of €40 million, bringing an end to his time at the club where he had developed through the ranks.

Cherki is now a key player for City, but his career could have taken a different direction had the proposed move to PSG in 2024 been completed.