Latest developments
- Manchester City are set to sign Rayan Cherki.
- An agreement over a transfer fee has now been reached with Lyon.
- Liverpool also showed interest in the Frenchman.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (5/5): Cherki set for City move
Pep Guardiola is set to be handed another high-profile signing, as Manchester City have reached an agreement with Lyon over a summer transfer for Rayan Cherki.
The story comes from the very reputed The Athletic, which adds the Frenchman, who also attracted interest from Liverpool, will undergo medical tests on Tuesday.
Value (3.5/5): High risk, high reward
Cherki is one of the most gifted talents in Europe who has recorded the best attacking output, 12 goals and 20 assists, of his career this season. As such, a fee of £33.7million seems very reasonable. However, there have been question marks over his work ethic, which might be a cause of concern down the road for City.
Suitability (3.5/5): Not a typical Guardiola talent
Pep Guardiola usually prefers attacking talents who are good at retaining possession of the ball and occupying rigid zones. However, the 21-year-old is a maverick type of attacking player, who demands the ball and tries to cut open defences with risky moves, including his impeccable dribbling. He has all the technical tools to thrive at the top club, but how he delivers at City could rely on the role Guardiola envisions for him.
Upgrade? (4.5/5): Versatile attacking talent
Guardiola is certainly going to appreciate just how versatile the two-footed France international is. He mainly thrives as a right winger but is capable of playing off both wings or central. He could emerge as Kevin De Bruyne's successor in midfield and also challenge the likes of Phil Foden and Savinho on the flanks.
Logic (5/5): Cherki accepts City switch
Cherki turned down a move to Fulham last summer, underlining he is not desperate to leave Lyon. However, once City knocked on the doors this summer, the young Frenchman took little time to give the green light for a move. He will sign a contract until 2030 at the Etihad.
Whisper+ verdict: 21.5/25
Multiple reliable outlets, including The Athletic, have confirmed everything is in place for the transfer of Cherki to go through.
