West Ham are keeping close tabs on Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki, according to The Athletic‘s Roshane Thomas.
The journalist claims that the Hammers are “scouting prospects” in France and the 21-year-old is “viewed favourably” by the club.
Lyon are reportedly in financial trouble, with debts of around €500m, so there is a good chance that Cherki will be available in January, despite the fact that he only put pen to paper on a new contract last summer.
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It is believed that the France Under 23 international could be signed for a fee of around €30m (£25m), or potentially even less than that.
West Ham will face serious competition for the player
Liverpool have been heavily linked with Cherki in recent weeks, with reports in the French media suggesting the Reds are lining up a formal bid.
Chelsea and Newcastle are also known to have kept an eye on the forward’s progress over the last year or so, and they may also be tempted to make a move if he does become available.
Cherki could be signed to replace Paqueta
Although the Frenchman has played on the wings for Lyon on a regular basis, his lack of pace means he would probably struggle to play in that position for a Premier League team.
Many feel Cherki’s attributes are best suited to a No.10 role, and that is an area where the Irons may need to strengthen very soon.
Lucas Paqueta’s FA hearing is due in March and, if he is found guilty, he could be banned for a lengthy period. It is, therefore, sensible for the club to be looking at contingency plans if the worst-case scenario unfolds.
Of course, with Paqueta having also been signed from Lyon, it may be somewhat fitting if his replacement comes from the same team.
Find out who is in West Ham’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here