As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester City are wasting no time in reshaping their squad for the 2025/26 season, with their sights set on Lyon’s electrifying attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki. The 21-year-old French star, who has dazzled in Ligue 1 with his creativity and flair, is reportedly the subject of initial talks between City and Lyon, with a potential transfer fee of £20-25 million representing a remarkable bargain for a player of his caliber. With the departure of Kevin De Bruyne looming and Jack Grealish’s future uncertain, City’s pursuit of Cherki signals a bold shift toward youth and dynamism, as Pep Guardiola aims to maintain the club’s dominance in the Premier League and beyond.
Cherki has been a standout performer for Lyon in the 2024/25 season, racking up an impressive 12 goals and 20 assists in 44 appearances across all competitions. His versatility as a No. 10 or winger, combined with his elite dribbling and vision, has made him one of Europe’s most coveted young talents. “He’s a magically gifted footballer,” one observer noted, highlighting Cherki’s ability to unlock defenses with his quick feet and sharp decision-making. His inclusion in the Ligue 1 Team of the Season, alongside only one other player outside champions Paris Saint-Germain, underscores his impact. City see him as a prime candidate to fill the void left by De Bruyne, whose contract expires in June 2025 and who has hinted at a move elsewhere after no new offer was extended. “City are happy to let elite midfielder Kevin De Bruyne leave the club this summer,” a source close to the club confirmed, marking a significant changing of the guard at the Etihad.
The move for Cherki comes as City also consider Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White, another attacking midfielder on their radar, valued at £60-70 million. However, Cherki’s reported release clause of around £20 million makes him an attractive, cost-effective option, especially as Lyon are open to his departure with his contract nearing its 2026 expiry. “Manchester City have made contact to start initial talks,” an insider revealed, noting that Cherki is “aware” of City’s interest and sees a move to the Etihad as aligning with his ambition to compete at the highest level. His standout performances, including two goals against Manchester United in the Europa League, have also caught the eye of United, but City’s proactive approach could see them steal a march on their rivals.
Guardiola’s interest in Cherki is no surprise, given the player’s fit for City’s possession-based system. His ability to operate in tight spaces and create chances mirrors the qualities De Bruyne brought to the squad, though Cherki’s youth offers long-term potential. “He can easily be shaped into an Ilkay Gundogan-esque player,” one analyst suggested, pointing to his technical prowess and versatility. However, City face competition, with Arsenal also eyeing Gibbs-White and potentially entering the race for Cherki, drawn by the prospect of Champions League football. City’s third-place finish in the 2024/25 Premier League ensures they too can offer Europe’s elite competition, but the financial constraints of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules may influence their strategy.
The potential exit of Jack Grealish, who played just one minute in City’s final four matches of the season, adds urgency to their attacking reinforcements. “I’m so sorry he doesn’t get the minutes that maybe he deserves,” Guardiola said of Grealish, whose £100 million price tag from 2021 contrasts sharply with his reduced role. A move to Newcastle, Everton, or even Serie A clubs like Napoli has been mooted, with City valuing him at £38-43 million. Cherki’s arrival could fill this gap, offering a fresh dynamic alongside young stars like Jeremy Doku and Savinho.
City’s transfer activity reflects a broader squad overhaul, with recent signings like Lens’ Abdukodir Khusanov for £40 million in January 2025 addressing defensive needs. Cherki’s potential bargain fee allows City to balance their books while investing in a player who could redefine their attack. “It’s a great opportunity to sign a top talent for a low price,” a transfer expert noted, emphasizing the rarity of such a deal. As talks progress, Cherki’s decision will hinge on his desire for regular minutes and a chance to shine under Guardiola’s tutelage. With the transfer window set to ignite, City’s pursuit of the Lyon star could mark the beginning of a new era at the Etihad.
# Manchester City Launch Move for Lyon’s Rayan Cherki in Bargain Summer Transfer
## A New Era at the Etihad
Manchester City have initiated talks to sign Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder, for a reported £20-25 million. With Kevin De Bruyne’s exit looming, City see Cherki as a key addition to bolster their attack.
## Cherki’s Stellar Season
Cherki’s 12 goals and 20 assists in 44 appearances for Lyon in 2024/25 earned him a spot in the Ligue 1 Team of the Season. “He’s a magically gifted footballer,” an analyst said, praising his versatility as a No. 10 or winger and his fit for Guardiola’s system.
## Replacing De Bruyne
With De Bruyne’s contract expiring in 2025 and no new offer extended, City are planning for the future. “City are happy to let elite midielfder Kevin De Bruyne leave,” a source confirmed. Cherki, with a £20 million release clause, is a cost-effective target compared to Morgan Gibbs-White’s £60-70 million valuation.
## Competition and Challenges
City have “made contact to start initial talks,” with Cherki “aware” of their interest. Arsenal and Manchester United also admire the France U21 star, but City’s Champions League status strengthens their case. A potential Grealish exit, with Guardiola noting, “I’m so sorry he doesn’t get the minutes,” adds urgency.
## Strategic Overhaul
City’s recent £40 million signing of Abdukodir Khusanov shows their intent to refresh the squad. Cherki’s bargain fee offers financial flexibility, with one expert noting, “It’s a great opportunity to sign a top talent for a low price.” His arrival could redefine City’s attack for years to come.
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