Rayan Cherki Edging Closer to Manchester City Move

Rayan Cherki might be packing his bags for Manchester soon — and he pretty much said it himself. After France’s chaotic 5-4 defeat to Spain in the Nations League semi-final, the Lyon star all but confirmed his Premier League move is just about done.

The 21-year-old was one of the bright spots in an otherwise gut-wrenching night for Les Bleus. He scored their second goal during a spirited comeback and teed up Randal Kolo Muani for a dramatic stoppage-time strike that made it 5-4. Unfortunately for France, it wasn’t enough to force extra time, and they’ll now face Germany in the third-place play-off on Sunday. But once the final whistle blew, everyone wanted to know the same thing: is Cherki heading to Manchester City? 

Speaking to Telefoot after the game, via Fabrizio Romano, Cherki didn’t hold back. “Yes… it’s getting done. But you already know my answer, everybody knows,” he said with a smile. “But there’s still a game to play. Now we have to enjoy and give everything, but after it will be done.” That pretty much seals it. City have reportedly agreed personal terms with the Lyon winger and are ready to trigger his £25 million release clause. Liverpool made a late attempt to hijack the deal, with manager Arne Slot even flying out to meet Cherki and his representatives — but it looks like City have already won this race. 

Fabrizio Romano backed that up with a tweet, saying, “Negotiations between Man City and OL for Rayan Cherki remain underway after agreement done with the player. Cherki wants the move and the clubs are working on the financial package surely in excess of €30m.” 

And it’s no wonder Europe’s top clubs are chasing him. Cherki has just had a breakout season with Lyon, playing 44 times in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and providing 20 assists. He was electric in Ligue 1, but it was his Europa League form that really turned heads. He led the creativity charts and left Manchester United defenders in knots with his dazzling footwork at Old Trafford. 

Having come through the ranks at Lyon, Cherki has spent his entire career at the club — but it seems that chapter is closing. And if he brings even half of his flair and confidence to the Premier League, Manchester City fans are in for a real treat. 

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