Liverpool manager Arne Slot recently cut short his holiday to meet with Lyon forward Rayan Cherki, adding a surprising twist to the club’s summer transfer plans.
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Slot flew to southern France to speak with Cherki in person. This unexpected move comes at a time when widespread reports have suggested that Florian Wirtz is Liverpool’s top target and nearing a move to Anfield.
Cherki, 21, has since emerged as Manchester City’s priority signing. However, the fact that Slot engaged with him before City made serious advances has stirred confusion.
Slot, known for his thorough approach, remains focused on signing Wirtz, who is currently on international duty. Still, the timing of the meeting with Cherki has led to renewed speculation about how close Liverpool truly are to securing the German playmaker.
Slot’s Strategic Planning While Wirtz Talks Progress
Though many assumed Cherki would go to City and Wirtz would end up at Liverpool, it’s now clear that Slot had discussions with the French attacker before City began pursuing him aggressively.
City reportedly shifted focus to Cherki only after pulling back from the Wirtz deal — which now appears to be Liverpool’s to lose. Ornstein noted this could be a decisive week in negotiations, with Wirtz favoring a move to Liverpool and the club ready to meet Bayer Leverkusen’s asking price.
Christian Falk reports that the Reds have tabled a package worth up to €130 million, and there’s growing belief that a breakthrough is close.
Nevertheless, Slot’s engagement with Cherki indicates Liverpool are covering all their bases in case the Wirtz deal doesn’t go as planned.
Manchester City are now actively pursuing Cherki, even though his contract expires next summer. Lyon are reportedly asking for more than the previously rumored €22.5 million release clause, according to The Athletic.
Wirtz remains Liverpool’s top priority, but the club is clearly keeping its options open
