Manchester City Acquires Rayan Cherki from Lyon
Manchester City have successfully negotiated a transfer deal with Lyon to acquire Rayan Cherki, strengthening their squad ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup. Reports from the Transfer DealSheet on June 3 initially hinted at City’s interest in the 21-year-old forward, with the club optimistic about finalizing the terms of the deal.
Transfer Details
Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, also made a trip to the South of France at the end of May, aiming to engage Cherki in a potential move to Liverpool, but ultimately it was City who secured the agreement. Both clubs have consented to a transfer fee around €40 million (£33.7 million), and Cherki is set to sign a contract extending until 2030.
This deal is nearing completion, with hopes that it will be finalized in time for Cherki to join Manchester City at the Club World Cup, slated to kick off in the United States later this week. City’s participation in the tournament will commence on June 18 against Wydad AC, followed by matches against Al Ain on June 22 and Juventus on June 26.
Performance Highlights
Cherki enjoyed an exceptional season in 2024-25, where he not only achieved personal bests in terms of attacking contributions—posting 12 goals and 20 assists—but also made a significant impact in Lyon’s Europa League run. He scored in both legs of their semi-final against Manchester United, which ended in a tight aggregate defeat.
The young talent was honored with a selection to the Europa League Team of the Season and received his maiden call-up to the French national team for the Nations League knockout stages, where he made his senior debut and scored.
Club Context and Future
John Textor, owner of Eagle Football Group, which controls a 77% stake in Lyon, had previously stated that Cherki was not for sale to alleviate financial pressures amid Lyon’s ongoing financial difficulties and relegation fears. The club faced a transfer ban last November following revelations of over €505 million (£422 million) in debt.
In the previous summer transfer window, Lyon accepted an offer from Fulham for Cherki, but he decided against the move, having trained separately in anticipation of future opportunities. Since debuting for Lyon at just 16 years old and becoming the club’s youngest goalscorer, he has marked his presence with 185 appearances.
Cherki, known for his flair and versatility, typically boasts an attacking style of play that may differ from Pep Guardiola’s usual preference. However, his two-footedness and capability to adapt between central and wing positions make him a valuable asset as City looks to adjust after the departure of key playmaker Kevin De Bruyne.
