Manchester United’s summer transfer window plans continue to evolve as they monitor attacking midfield reinforcements to strengthen their squad.
The Red Devils have been actively searching for creativity in the final third, especially as question marks linger over the futures of key players like Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.
Ruben Amorim is understood to be pushing the board to back his attacking vision, and the club has drawn up a shortlist of exciting young talents.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
One of the names firmly in the spotlight is Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, a technically gifted playmaker admired by several clubs across Europe.
However, Manchester United’s path to landing the French talent has now hit a major roadblock.
According to Fabrizio Romano via X, Manchester City have reportedly opened initial talks with Lyon for Cherki, aiming to fill the void left in their plans after pulling out of a potential deal for Florian Wirtz.
City are now prioritising Rayan Cherki alongside Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White, with the Frenchman said to be aware of Pep Guardiola’s growing interest.
Cherki, 20, has just one year left on his current deal and is expected to leave this summer in search of a new challenge.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
United had identified him as a long-term solution in the number ten role, impressed by his vision, flair, and ability to unlock deep defences — attributes Amorim highly values for his attacking system.
But with City moving quickly and decisively, United may need to accelerate their pursuit or risk missing out altogether.
The Red Devils are reluctant to enter a bidding war, especially considering other areas of the squad still need attention.
Lyon are reportedly open to a sale for the right price, with offers in the region of €25-30 million likely to be enough to secure the midfielder’s services.
Cherki made 39 appearances last season and remains one of the most promising young talents in Ligue 1, attracting widespread interest beyond the Premier League as well.
Manchester United now face a decision — step up their interest or walk away from a potential generational talent.
🚨🔵 Manchester City made contact to start initial talks for Rayan Cherki as target for #10 position.
He’s top of the list with Morgan Gibbs-White after Wirtz deal off, while Cherki’s also aware of Man City interest. pic.twitter.com/YvQPEXoumr
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 29, 2025
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTREDEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!