Liverpool have made recent “enquiries” about Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki, according to L’Equipe.
The French publication claims that the Reds are the latest club to consider a move for the 21-year-old, who has less than 12 months left on his contract at Lyon.
Moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund have already collapsed in recent months, while he is also said to have rejected a transfer to Fulham.
Due to his contract situation, L’Equipe report that Lyon are willing to let him leave for just €15m (£12.6m).
Cherki is a very talented young player
The France Under 21 international has already been compared to Eden Hazard due to his style of play, and Chelsea have actually considered signing him over the past year.
Liverpool have also been linked with Cherki previously (with reports surfacing back in June), while Newcastle have been touted as another potential destination. The amount of interest is not surprising, considering the natural talent he possesses.
What is stopping Liverpool from signing him?
There have been question marks about Cherki’s attitude and that has consequently led the Reds and other teams to be rather cautious in their pursuit of the player. The midfielder may just need the right coach to get the best out of him but there is also the potential for him to go completely off the rails.
For €15m (£12.6m), some fans may argue it is a risk worth taking but head coach Arne Slot will be mindful about dressing room harmony. A decision will have to be made soon, though.
Not only is the deadline very close, but Lyon are now considering extending Cherki’s contract, which would increase his price in any future transfer window. We shall see how this story plays out between now and Friday night.
