Liverpool are reportedly one of several clubs interested in signing Lyon’s technical wizard Rayan Cherki but seem set to wait until the summer to compete for his signature.
Some fans hoped that Liverpool would add to their squad this month after not making any signings in the summer transfer window but Arne Slot seems quite content to continue with what he has.
It’s understandable given that Liverpool top the Premier League and Champions League tables but it would appear that some plans are being considered ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window.
While many would argue defensive signings are a greater priority given the wealth of attacking options currently at Anfield, Lyon’s Rayan Cherki is catching Europe’s attention with the season he’s having in Ligue 1.
Liverpool and Manchester United gear up for summer battle over Cherki
According to Caught Offside, Liverpool are one of several sides taking notice of Cherki with his €22 million (£18.4m) fee no doubt a large factor in the Reds’ interest.
The French attacking midfielder has five goals and eight assists this season and would be a wonderful addition to Slot’s attacking setup although it would require a tactical adjustment as Liverpool don’t play with an outright no.10.
Cherki’s entourage is said to be “actively seeking a new destination” for next season with both Liverpool and Manchester United already making contact with Lyon.
The Premier League giants have enquired about signing the 21-year-0ld although a deal this month is likely impossible given the lack of time remaining in the window. Logically, both sides prefer to wait until the summer before accelerating their interest.
Tottenham and Arsenal are also said to be interested but haven’t taken any formal action.
Rayan Cherki’s 2024/25. Unique baller. ??? pic.twitter.com/ZUIaRITxID
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) January 3, 2025
Outside the Premier League, Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen and PSG are all tracking the player ahead of the summer. Atalanta are reportedly willing to offer €20 million (£16.7m) but Cherki is unsure about a move to Serie A and so has put the Italians on hold for the time being.
What could Cherki bring to Liverpool?
Liverpool are in a brilliant place where new signings have to be top-class and ready to make an impact otherwise they run the risk of finding themselves stuck on the bench.
Federico Chiesa is an example. A player of his quality would start for most Premier League teams but he has Mo Salah in front of him.
Cherki, however, is a player that Arne Slot would struggle to keep on the bench. His style is reminiscent of Philippe Coutinho albeit the Lyon star is left-footed but his dribbling, robust physicality and end product all make for the ideal Premier League attacking midfielder.
And at just £18.4m, FSG would likely give the move their blessing if it’s what Slot wants.