Cherki has already agreed personal terms with Man City; club prepared to trigger his €22.5 million clause
Rayan Cherki appears to have confirmed that his transfer to Manchester City is close to completion, following a standout performance for France in their dramatic 5-4 defeat to Spain in the UEFA Nations League semi-final.
The 21-year-old Lyon star came off the bench and made an instant impact, scoring a goal and providing an assist in a spirited French comeback that ultimately fell just short. Speaking to Telefoot after the match, Cherki was asked about reports linking him to Manchester City.
“Yes… it’s getting done,” he said. “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.”
Sources say Cherki has already agreed personal terms with City and the club are prepared to trigger his £25 million release clause. His contract at Lyon runs until 2026 and with 12 goals and 20 assists last season, interest from elite European sides was inevitable.
A versatile attacking player, Cherki has operated primarily on the right wing but is equally comfortable as a central playmaker, a trait Pep Guardiola is known to value. His technical flair and creativity have long marked him as one of France’s most exciting prospects, and a move to the Etihad would mark a major step-up in his career.
Before the deal is finalised, Cherki could yet play another key role for France as they prepare to face Germany in the Nations League third-place playoff on Sunday.
