Top clubs chasing ‘shaken-up’ Cherki: ‘You shouldn’t go easy on him’

Rayan Cherki has firmly re-established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in European football following a standout 2024/25 campaign with Olympique Lyon.

The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, long hailed as a generational talent in French football, capped off a productive season by helping Lyon finish sixth in Ligue 1 and reach the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League. His personal statistics are a testament to his development: twelve goals and twenty assists in 44 competitive appearances a career-best tally that has reignited the attention of Europe’s top clubs.

Cherki was instrumental in Lyon's European run, with his performances on the continental stage serving as confirmation of his readiness to step up to a higher level. He produced one of his most memorable displays in the Europa League quarter-final clash against Manchester United, scoring twice across the two legs and creating constant problems for the Premier League side’s defence. His technical flair, vision, and confidence in possession were on full display attributes that have been part of his reputation since breaking into the Lyon first team as a teenager.

Reports from L'Équipe suggest that Cherki is now one of the most coveted players in the European transfer market. Several high-profile clubs are monitoring his situation closely, including Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, Tottenham Hotspur, and AC Milan. Aston Villa has also reportedly entered the race, adding further intrigue to what could become one of the most hotly contested transfer sagas of the summer.

The competition for his signature reflects just how highly regarded Cherki is among scouts and technical directors across the continent. His versatility being able to play as a central attacking midfielder, winger, or even in a free-roaming forward role makes him an attractive target for clubs looking to add creativity and unpredictability to their squads. Furthermore, his contract with Lyon runs until June 2026, meaning the French club is under no immediate pressure to sell, though they are aware that this summer may be their last opportunity to command a substantial transfer fee before his market value begins to plateau.

What makes Cherki’s resurgence particularly compelling is the path he has taken to reach this point. In the last couple of seasons, the hype around him had slightly cooled as he struggled for consistent form and minutes under multiple managers. Critics questioned his maturity and decision-making, while Lyon’s inconsistency as a team didn't help his development. Yet, under the guidance of current manager Pierre Sage, Cherki has found stability, focus, and the freedom to express his creative instincts resulting in his most complete season to date.

It’s also worth noting that Cherki came very close to leaving Lyon last summer. The club had reportedly agreed on a €15 million deal with Fulham, and a move to the Premier League seemed imminent. However, Cherki himself rejected the transfer, preferring to remain at his boyhood club to continue his development. That decision now looks vindicated, with his value having soared thanks to his performances this season. Lyon, meanwhile, will now command a significantly higher fee for their academy product with figures in the region of €35 to €50 million being discussed in French media.

Cherki’s rise comes at an ideal time for the French national team as well. Though he has represented France at various youth levels, he has yet to make his debut for the senior squad. That could change very soon, as manager Didier Deschamps is believed to be closely monitoring his progress. A senior call-up in June is a realistic possibility, especially with international fixtures approaching and the need to integrate younger talent into the squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle.

Despite his youth, Cherki has already amassed over 150 appearances for Lyon, which speaks volumes about the club’s belief in his talent. His blend of technical excellence, creativity, and eye for goal make him a natural fit for possession-based systems and clubs like Manchester City, Liverpool, and AC Milan could all offer him platforms to flourish in that regard. Yet questions remain about where he would receive the most consistent playing time, and how much influence he would be given at clubs already stacked with attacking talent.

What seems certain is that this summer will be a turning point in Cherki’s career. He is no longer just a promising youngster he is now delivering at a level that demands recognition. Whether he stays in Ligue 1 for another season or makes the leap to one of Europe’s elite leagues will depend on how the transfer market unfolds in the coming weeks. Lyon face a dilemma: cash in now and reinvest, or hold on to a player who could lead them back into title contention.

Whatever decision is made, Rayan Cherki has ensured that he will be one of the most talked-about names of the summer window and wherever he goes next, he’ll arrive not as a prospect, but as a proven performer ready to make an impact.