Manchester City have identified Lyon midfielder Rayan Cherki as a key transfer target ahead of this year’s FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, according to reports from French outlet L’Équipe.
Fresh off a third-place finish in the Premier League, Pep Guardiola’s side is preparing to reinforce its squad for both domestic and international duties.
With the Club World Cup looming, City are keen to finalise deals early in the summer window, and Cherki has emerged as a top priority.
The 20-year-old Frenchman, widely regarded as one of Ligue 1’s most technically gifted young players, has attracted attention from several European clubs.
Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Bayer Leverkusen are all reportedly monitoring the Lyon playmaker. However, it is Manchester City who appear to be moving most aggressively to secure his signature.
In recent days, City officials are said to have initiated contact with members of Cherki’s inner circle, including conversations with his former coaches, notably Lyon manager Pierre Sage.
These discussions suggest that the English champions are attempting to build a strong case to persuade the player to make the switch to the Etihad Stadium.
A formal bid is expected to be submitted to Olympique Lyonnais within the next week. While the player is under a “gentlemen’s agreement” with the club—reportedly worth €22.5 million—any offer below that valuation would trigger a clause allowing Cherki to accelerate negotiations for a move elsewhere. Lyon are understood to be seeking a fee in the region of €40 million to part ways with one of their most valuable assets.
Cherki’s future has been the subject of speculation for several transfer windows, but with his contract nearing its final stages and Lyon open to reinvesting in their squad, this summer appears to be a decisive moment.
City’s interest marks a significant opportunity for the midfielder to step into one of Europe’s elite sides ahead of a major international competition.
For Manchester City, the potential addition of Cherki fits a broader strategy of acquiring emerging talent who can be integrated into Guardiola’s system.
The club’s participation in the expanded Club World Cup format in the United States this summer has added urgency to their transfer business, as they aim to bolster squad depth ahead of the demanding calendar.
While no deal has yet been finalised, City’s intent is clear. By moving early and engaging directly with those closest to the player, the Premier League giants are attempting to fend off rival interest and avoid a drawn-out transfer saga.
With the summer window officially opening soon, all eyes will be on whether Manchester City can wrap up a deal for Rayan Cherki and bring one of France’s most promising young talents to the Premier League before their journey to the U.S. begins.
