Rayan Cherki Chooses Preferred Premier League Club Amid Liverpool and Manchester City Interest
Promising French midfielder Rayan Cherki has reportedly made up his mind about where he wants to play in the Premier League, amid growing interest from both Liverpool and Manchester City. The 21-year-old Lyon star has been on the radar of both clubs, but recent reports suggest he favors a move to Manchester City.
Sources from both French and English media claim that Cherki is drawn to Pep Guardiola’s football philosophy and values City’s focus on technical skill. He is said to admire how Guardiola has developed creative midfielders like Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva — players whose roles he hopes to emulate.
After a standout season in Ligue 1, Cherki enters the final year of his contract with Lyon. Rather than risk losing him for nothing in 2026, the French club is expected to sell him this summer, with an estimated asking price between €40 and €50 million — a fee well within reach for both Liverpool and City.
Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, had hoped to attract Cherki as part of their revamped attack. However, with the player reportedly leaning toward City, the Merseyside club could find themselves in a challenging position.
Regarded as one of France’s top young talents, Cherki’s adaptability — able to play as an attacking midfielder, winger, or deeper playmaker — has drawn comparisons to players like Riyad Mahrez and Hatem Ben Arfa. A move to the Premier League seems imminent, with Manchester City now seen as the frontrunner for his signature.
Talks are expected to ramp up soon, with City preparing an official bid and Lyon open to negotiations.
