Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.
Image Credits: Getty Images
Manchester City and Liverpool had a bit of overlap in transfer targets this summer.
Pep Guardiola wanted Florian Wirtz, but the Cityzens pulled out of the deal due to concerns over the finances of the deal.
The Manchester club also sniffed around Milos Kerkez before it became clear the Hungarian only wanted Anfield.
But now, a player that Arne Slot flew out to meet in Rayan Cherki is now all set to make the move to the Etihad.
The meeting with Slot was scheduled before Wirtz became advanced, and the Dutch manager and Liverpool wanted to honour the commitment even if it was clear they would not be making a move for the midfielder.
Fabrizio Romano, taking to X, has reported the transfer is ‘here we go’ after Le Equipe reported the news.
The 21-year-old is set to sign a five-year contract, and his arrival is expected to be completed in time for City’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup:
“Rayan Cherki to Manchester City, here we go! Deal in place club to club after direct contact.”
“Cherki will sign five year deal as #MCFC player, OL to receive €35m package with add-ons as L’Équipé reports.”
“Documents being prepared in time for Club World Cup.”
Lyon’s weakened negotiating position, stemming from the player’s contract situation and a gentleman’s agreement after a blocked move to PSG, allowed City to secure a deal well below market expectations.
With the departure of Kevin De Bruyne, the France international goes a long way in filling the creative gap left by the Man City legend.
For any Liverpool fans wondering why City are moving a lot faster in their transfer business (having already signed Rayan Ait Nouri), it’s due to wanting to take new signings to the Club World Cup.
For the Reds, there is not the same time pressure.
🚨🔵 BREAKING: Rayan Cherki to Manchester City, here we go! Deal in place club to club after direct contact.
Cherki will sign five year deal as #MCFC player, OL to receive €35m package with add-ons as L’Équipé reports.