Rayan Cherki, along with the likes of Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens, looks set to be one of the most sought-after talents of the summer transfer window.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who can also operate on either wing, has enjoyed a productive campaign for Lyon so far.
The Frenchman has plundered five goals and provided eight assists across 23 appearances (in all competitions) – a remarkable contribution rate of one goal every 110.53 minutes.
In the English Premier League, Arne Slot birds high Liverpool are understood to be keeping tabs on their sense of profit 1.
Liverpool need a move
Merceders The European outfit is not the only one of keen interest In the European League star.
It is similarly understood that Bayern Munich is the footballer on his shortlist. However, the Bavarian giants are not prepared to sanction a move for his services in the current transfer window.
“Bayern have Ryan Czarkey on their shortlist. The club is interested in the player.” Christian Falk Aware of Revealside In his exclusive files column.
“Lyon would be willing to sell him in the winter for around €22m, but FC Bayern don't want to do a deal in January; Cerkey looks like a stronger candidate for the summer.
“The two clubs have a good relationship partly because Michael Gerlinger – who previously worked with Bayern for 18 years – is now the global football director of Eagle Football Holdings, of which Olympique Lyonnais is part.”
Liverpool did not get down to business in January. Notably, they still have serious internal redundancy issues given that Virgil van Dijk, Mo Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are yet to sign contract extensions.
As such, it's hard to imagine Richard Hughes and Co. exerting any energy towards a new signing given that the ongoing contract saga will have much of a say in how the Reds recruit in the summer.
Having said that, it looks like they would maintain the upper hand had they tried to act in January before the contest.
What is Ryan Cherkey's playing style?
There is no doubt that Chirkey is the type of player who likes to make things happen.
on Lyon official websiteNo. 18 admitted that he would like to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo: “I'm a person who wants to be happy, who tries to do beautiful things with the ball while remaining efficient.
“I like to play with joy. I have had many idols, but the person who inspires me the most is Cristiano Ronaldo. His longevity is exemplary, and he is the person I emulate.”
The Frenchman's statistical profile would certainly support this assertion.
fbref Get the 2024 Olympian as one of the most creative talents in world football; Cherki ranks in the 99th percentile for XAG actions and shot creation.
Goal threat is one area that stands out as needing to rise (74th percentile for XG), but there's no denying that he looks incredibly balanced already at 21 years old.
If he develops intelligently in an elite European squad, the French top flight star could turn into an absolutely formidable footballer.
For just €22m (£18.55) – you must think he's worth a punt!
The United man's worst fears will come true as Liverpool are in the transfer blitz
