Rayan Cherki has acknowledged that a summer transfer to Manchester City is imminent.
There was a rush to sign the player, who is considered one of the best in Europe, after the Lyon sensation announced his intention to leave the French team at the end of the 2024–25 campaign.
Before seeming to turn their attention to Bryan Mbuemo, Manchester United was one of the teams interested in his services. Arne Slot flew to France for in-person discussions with Liverpool, who are also admirers, before the team finally turned its attention to Florian Wirtz.
However, City is now the front-runner to sign the Frenchman.
Cherki scored on Thursday night as France lost to Spain 5–4 in a thrilling Nations League semi-final, forcing them to play Germany for third place on Sunday.
Although the attacking midfielder is currently focused on his international obligations, he disclosed that a move for a reported £35 million is imminent.
‘Yes… it’s getting done,’ Cherki told Telefoot. ‘But you already know my answer, everybody knows. But there’s still a game to play. Now we have to enjoy and give everything, but after it will be done.’
City hope to have Cherki signed in time to play in the Club World Cup. Pep Guardiola’s side begin their campaign against Wydad AC on Wednesday 18 June.
City have also agreed a deal to sign AC Milan star Tijani Reijnders, with the midfielder set to join for a fee that could rise to £58million.
Wolves left-back Rayan Ait Nouri is another key target with Wolves demanding £50million for their player.
The deadline for City to complete transfer transactions and register new players for the Club World Cup is Tuesday.
AC Milan’s Tijani Reijnders is joining.
The City team is undergoing significant changes following the end of their run of four consecutive Premier League titles, with high-profile players like Kevin de Bruyne and Jack Grealish leaving.
Guardiola told ESPN, “I need energy for myself, and the people give me energy.” During the training sessions, you notice new faces, eyes, and small details like “I want to be there” and “I want to do it.” It’s fresh vitality.
“Because energy for itself, the energy is more Community Shield, Premier League, or Champions League?” It isn’t. It will not alter anything in my life, not even the Premier League, during my time at Manchester City.