Latest developments
- Crystal Palace are trying to sign Rayan Cherki from Lyon.
- But the Eagles face competition from Paris Saint-Germain.
- The 21-year-old is expected to cost around £30 million.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Lyon and Palace linked
Crystal Palace are aiming to pull off an impressive deal by signing Lyon's 21-year-old attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki, but the deal could be scuppered as PSG and Borussia Dortmund are also interested.
This news comes from The Sun, rarely the most trustworthy source, although Lyon owner John Textor has a stake in Palace, making a credible link between the clubs.
Value (4/5): Lyon need the cash
Cherki has 18 months left on his current deal, and Lyon will be hoping to cash in while they can given their recent financial difficulties.
They value the France under-21 international at £30 million, above his £16.5 million Transfermarkt valuation, but still a good rate for the player who sits joint-second for goals and assists at the former champions this season.
Suitability (4/5): Able to sit in behind
After a rocky start to the campaign, Oliver Glasner's men have begun to pick up some well-earned points, using two attacking midfielders to sit in behind a centre-forward, and in front of a defensive midfield four.
Able to operate on the left or the right, the Lyon academy product would work well in that attacking double, while able to provide more of a goal threat.
Upgrade? (4/5): Overdue Olise replacement
While not quite the same player as Michael Olise, Cherki can provide the same level of creativity that the now Bayern Munich man took with him to Germany.
Of the two starting behind Jean-Philippe Mateta at present, Ismaila Sarr's place looks under more threat than Eberechi Eze's, but either way, Cherki would be expected to go straight into the starting line-up at Selhurst Park.
Logic (1.5/5): Perfect for Palace, rubbish for Rayan
One of the most exciting young players in France available at a great price, what is not to love for Palace?
For Cherki, however, he has stated that he wants to play for a top UEFA Champions League club, and already turned down Fulham last summer. Regardless of price and links, Palace can't compete with PSG and Dortmund on that front.
Whisper+ verdict: 16/25
It is wholly possible that, with the Textor link and affordable price, Palace are talking to Lyon about Cherki. But as for choosing a relegation battle over Champions League football, Cherki will surely not be talking to Palace.
