Manchester United look poised to beat Liverpool to the signing of Olympique Lyon’s attacking sensation Rayan Cherki.
Manchester United and Liverpool are interested in acquiring the services of Rayan Cherki. Both Premier League giants have been monitoring him for a while now. The French youth international is quite high on their wishlist, and they could make a move this summer.
According to a report from the Mirror, the Red Devils are the ones who are leading the race at this stage. Cherki, who scored a late equaliser against Manchester United in the quarter-final first leg, could be lining up for them next season.
The 21-year-old has come up the ranks at Lyon and has been a part of their first team since the start of 2020. While he has had his ups and downs, Cherki has been a standout performer for them this season. The attacking midfielder has been involved in 37 matches, and he has contributed towards 28 goals (10 goals, 18 assists).
Cherki’s future could be in the Premier League
He is equally effective as a ten as well as on the right flank, and the French international can pretty much feature anywhere in attack if needed. His consistent performances have put him on the radar of quite a few top clubs.
While he did turn down an opportunity to join PSG last summer, the 21-year-old could be heading to the Premier League as top clubs are looking to make a move. He was close to joining Manchester United’s academy before signing his first professional contract with Lyon.
Things didn’t work out back then, but United were already aware of his abilities when he was just 16 and have been monitoring him ever since. Amorim seeks more creativity and goals, and Cherki could be a cost-effective option for the Red Devils as he could be available for just £20 million.
Liverpool are also interested in Cherki
Even Liverpool have been keeping a close eye on him. While they have managed to extend Mohamed Salah’s contract, they do need to prepare for the long run, and Cherki could prove to be an ideal long-term replacement for the Egyptian. For now, he could give Arne Slot more options in the final third.
While the Reds are keen on his signature, they are behind United at this stage. Amorim’s team believe they hold an advantage because Cherki was impressed by the way he was treated during his visit to their Carrington training ground back in the day.
