### Manchester City Faces Competition in Rayan Cherki Transfer Saga Manchester City is intensifying its pursuit of Lyon's talented winger Rayan Cherki, a 21-year-old playmaker who has garnered significant attention following an impressive season where he recorded **12 goals and 20 assists** across all competitions in 2024-25. As City looks to rebuild its squad amid uncertainty regarding key players like Jack Grealish and Kevin De Bruyne, Cherki has emerged as a prime target. However, Liverpool has reportedly entered the fray, threatening to disrupt City's plans to secure the young talent [https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/ecaaf580/premier-league-rivals-threaten-to-hijack-man-citys-rayan-cherki-pursuit]. ### Breakdown of the Transfer Situation 1. **Current Status of Negotiations** - Manchester City is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Lyon for Cherki, with a potential transfer fee estimated between **€30-40 million** [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/exclusive_manchester_city_are_advancing_with_their_move_for_one_of_their_top_summer_transfer_targets/s1_17289_42270179]. - Cherki has expressed eagerness to join City, indicating a verbal agreement is close [https://tribuna.com/en/news/2025-05-31-rayan-cherki-close-to-verbal-agreement-over-man-city-move-sky]. 2. **Interest from Other Clubs** - Liverpool is reportedly keeping its options open and has held talks with Cherki, which could complicate City's pursuit [https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/ecaaf580/premier-league-rivals-threaten-to-hijack-man-citys-rayan-cherki-pursuit]. - Manchester United is also interested, making the competition for Cherki even fiercer [https://metro.co.uk/2025/05/31/man-city-ready-bid-sign-34m-star-ahead-man-utd-and-liverpool-23293837]. 3. **Cherki's Performance and Potential** - Cherki's standout season has made him a sought-after player, with his technical skills and attacking flair being key attributes that City hopes to leverage [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/manchester_city_reportedly_make_their_move_to_sign_rayan_cherki/s1_17289_42257636]. - His ability to contribute significantly to the team's offensive play is seen as crucial, especially with De Bruyne's impending departure [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/manchester-city-interested-lyon-star-as-de-bruyne-replacement-110700047.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Performance Metrics**: - **Goals**: 12 - **Assists**: 20 - **Matches Played**: 44 - **Transfer Fee Range**: €30-40 million [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/exclusive_manchester_city_are_advancing_with_their_move_for_one_of_their_top_summer_transfer_targets/s1_17289_42270179]. - **Club Interests**: - **Manchester City**: Leading the pursuit with advanced negotiations. - **Liverpool**: Actively exploring options to sign Cherki. - **Manchester United**: Also in the mix for the young talent [https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/ecaaf580/premier-league-rivals-threaten-to-hijack-man-citys-rayan-cherki-pursuit]. ### Conclusion: A Competitive Transfer Landscape In summary, **Manchester City is aggressively pursuing Rayan Cherki**, recognizing his potential to enhance their attacking options amid significant squad changes. However, the interest from Liverpool and Manchester United adds a layer of complexity to the situation. The coming weeks will be critical as City aims to finalize the deal before the transfer window closes. 1. **City's Negotiation Status**: Advanced talks with Lyon, aiming for a transfer fee of €30-40 million. 2. **Competition**: Liverpool and Manchester United are also interested, complicating City's efforts. 3. **Cherki's Value**: His impressive season makes him a valuable asset for any top club looking to bolster their squad [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/exclusive_manchester_city_are_advancing_with_their_move_for_one_of_their_top_summer_transfer_targets/s1_17289_42270179, https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/ecaaf580/premier-league-rivals-threaten-to-hijack-man-citys-rayan-cherki-pursuit].