Manchester United target Rayan Cherki has made a decision over his Lyon future.
The summer transfer window is almost upon us and Manchester United are identifying their primary targets.
Ruben Amorim needs to improve the squad after a turbulent campaign, but if they can win the Europa League on Wednesday night, it would grant the club extra spending power at the end of the season.
Ineos won’t be able to plan for the transfer window until they know if United will be competing in the Champions League next season.
Many of the targets listed already have Premier League experience such as Matheus Cunha and Liam Delap.
But United are also expected to dip into the European market for players. There is no shortage of targets if you believe everything that gets written.
Photo by Richard Callis/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images
Photo by Richard Callis/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images
Rayan Cherki announces Lyon exit
Lyon star Rayan Cherki was left in tears following the final Ligue 1 game of the season against Angers.
The 21-year-old, who starred against United in the Europa League quarter-finals, has been linked with a move away from Lyon after refusing a new contract.
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Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano claims Cherki has decided to leave Lyon this summer, after the plan was announced in the mixed zone by the player on Saturday night.
Cherki said: “Thanks OL, the coach, the staff, the president, my teammates and all people at the club.”
🚨💣 Rayan Cherki has decided to LEAVE Olympique Lyon this summer, the plan has been announced by the player in mixed zone tonight.
“Thanks to OL, the coach, the staff, the president, my teammates and all people at the club”. pic.twitter.com/SmKeUX55Ec
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 17, 2025
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United tried to sign Cherki at 15 years old, so he is someone who has been on the transfer radar for a while.
Reports suggest Cherki’s agent has contacted United over a potential move for the talented playmaker, while others claim the Red Devils are ahead of Real Madrid to sign Cherki for around £25 million.
To sign Cherki, it would be simply a matter of paying the release clause of a young player who has made 185 first team appearances for Lyon.
Cherki has managed 12 goals and 20 assists in all competitions this season. He can play a range of positions including right wing and as a No 10.
Rayan Cherki impressed against Manchester United
In the Europa League quarter-finals, it wasn’t difficult to point out Lyon’s star player on the pitch.
Most of their creative play came through Rayan Cherki, who netted a last-minute equaliser in the first leg at the Groupama Stadium. He struck again in extra time at Old Trafford before United staged a remarkable comeback.
Cherki gave Patrick Dorgu a horrible time, showing off his silky passes and footwork to impress those in attendance.
Only time will tell if Cherki impressed enough to warrant interest from United this summer.