Latest developments
- Liverpool have been handed a boost in their bid to sign Rayan Cherki.
- Lyon have supposedly lined up his like-for-like replacement.
- The Ligue 1 outfit are set to sign Thiago Almada from Botafogo.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Potential replacement sparks speculation
Rayan Cherki has been on Liverpool‘s radar since the summer, but it has proven tough for the Frenchman's suitors to convince Lyon to part ways with him. However, Thiago Almada, who is seen as his replacement, has revealed he is set to move to the French club in January, despite their transfer embargo.
Almada made the claim of his transfer in an interview with ESPN (via Liverpool Echo), potentially opening the way for Cherki to depart Lyon.
Value (4.5/5): Phenomenal market opportunity
Over the summer, Fulham had a bid worth €15 million plus € 5million in add-ons accepted by Lyon – only for the versatile attacker to turn down the move. Lyon are in no better financial position heading into the January transfer window and should accept a similar fee.
With five goals and seven assists to his name across all competitions this term, Cherki would be an absolute steal at that price.
Suitability (3/5): Long-term Salah replacement
Mo Salah continues to be the star in Liverpool's frontline in a 4-3-3 formation. Cherki has the versatility to play across the line but he mostly thrives in zones that the legendary right-winger likes to occupy. He has been previously touted to replace the Liverpool talisman.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): Opportunity to test the waters
Replacing Salah isn't going to be easy for the Liverpool hierarchy. However, bringing in a player who has the potential to make a difference, akin to Salah, in January would allow Slot to both rest his superstar and experiment with his lineup in his absence to slowly find a reliable long-term option to succeed the 32-year-old.
Logic (3.5/5): Time to test his skill sets
Cherki is unlikely to be handed a regular starting spot under Slot from the get-go, but the challenge to replace Salah and play in different attacking positions under the Reds gaffer may help the Frenchman test his talent at the highest level and realise his true potential.
Whisper+ verdict: 16/25
A supremely talented, all-action forward potentially available for a bargain fee – there's plenty for Liverpool fans to be excited about. However, a lot could depend on Almada's future.
