Chelsea-linked striker Hugo Ekitike has liked a post from latest Premier League arrival Rayan Cherki after he signed for Manchester City. The former Lyon playmaker completed his move to City ahead of their Club World Cup campaign for a reported £30million.
The 21-year-old has been in high demand in recent years after breaking through the ranks at Lyon with Arsenal firmly linked while Liverpool were also keeping tabs - following a meeting with head coach Arne Slot during their pursuit of Florian Wirtz. The attacking midfielder will travel to the United States for the new-look competition which starts on June 14.
Ekitike has been repeatedly linked with a move to the Premier League with Chelsea and Liverpool said to be interested.
The 22-year-old was the topic of speculation throughout the first stage of the transfer window, which opened at the beginning of June and closed on Tuesday (June 10) at 7pm, with the Blues said to be at the front of the queue to sign him.
However, their efforts to sign him before the Club World Cup were in vain, according to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg.
It was claimed that the deal collapsed with no full agreement or official offer to the Bundesliga club but both Chelsea and the France under-21 international remain in talks while Liverpool are still in the race.
Despite not landing a move of his own, he was on hand to support Cherki after he secured his move from Ligue 1 to England's top-flight.
Hugo Ekitike appeared to like Rayan Cherki's post after leaving Lyon.
Hugo Ekitike appeared to like Rayan Cherki's post after leaving Lyon. (Image: Instagram)
Cherki posted a compilation video of his highlights at his boyhood club, Lyon, on his Instagram which attracted 171,000 likes including Ekitike.
"This is a dream for me," said Cherki after the move.
"Honestly, to be joining a club like Manchester City and have the opportunity to make the next step in my career here is something very, very special."
"I have worked so hard for this all my life. I love this sport, and I can't wait to develop further here in Manchester with Pep and his backroom staff.
"The responsibility to help the team continue winning is something I want to embrace.
"I would only leave Lyon for a project I really believe in and everything at City suggests I can develop my game and help the team be successful in the future."