The Lyon star has finally spoken out about his intention to join the Premier League.
Rayan Cherki, a France international, looks to have determined which Premier League team he would join after reports that Liverpool could hijack his move to Manchester City.
On Thursday night, Euro 2024 champions Spain defeated France 5-4 in a dramatic Nations League semi-final at Stuttgart’s MHP Arena.
Several elite players who have lately been linked with a move to the Premier League took part in the match, including Nico Williams, Martin Zubimendi, and Cherki.
Of the three, Lyon star Cherki has sparked the greatest interest, having been linked with both Manchester City and Liverpool in recent days, making his future uncertain.
However, Cherki has now spoken out to dispel the rumors and disclose which club he intends to join during the summer transfer window.
Prior to the match, sources stated that Cherki had accepted personal terms with City, who will reportedly activate the £25 million release clause in his current Lyon contract.
After Thursday’s encounter, the 21-year-old confirmed the rumor, telling Telefoot (via Fabrizio Romano): “Yes, it’s getting done.” But you already know my answer; everyone does.
“However, there is still a game to play. Now we have to enjoy and give everything, but then it will be over.”
With personal terms agreed and a release clause in place, it appears only a matter of time before Cherki’s move to City is finalized, despite Liverpool manager Arne Slot allegedly seeing him and his squad last week.
The French international primarily plays as a right winger, and it’s no surprise that Pep Guardiola is interested in signing him this summer, given his strong exploits this season.
Cherki came off the bench shortly after the hour mark in Thursday’s play against Spain and made an immediate impact, scoring one goal and assisting on another less than ten minutes later.
Cherki made 44 appearances in all competitions for Ligue 1 club Lyon, where he has spent his whole career, scoring 12 goals and assisting 20 times.
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