Rayan Cherki is emerging as one of the hottest names on the transfer market this summer, with Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur currently leading the race to sign the Lyon playmaker, Caught Offside reports.
The 21-year-old has enjoyed a stellar campaign with the beleaguered Ligue 1 outfit, contributing 12 goals and 19 assists in all competitions. Cherki’s flair, technical precision, and ability to unlock defences have caught the attention of Europe’s elite, and Lyon’s €30-35 million valuation is viewed as a bargain for a player of his profile.
Clubs from England, Germany, and Italy are closely monitoring developments. However, Cherki has expressed a clear preference for the Premier League, making England his likely destination.
Manchester United are desperate for a creative spark in the final third, especially with inconsistencies from players like Alejandro Garnacho and the fading impact of Rasmus Hojlund. Cherki could fill the No.10 or inverted winger role in Ruben Amorim’s evolving setup, providing flair, unpredictability, and a goal threat from advanced areas. He would compete with Bruno Fernandes in the short term, but could also play wide in a 3-4-2-1 system.
As for Tottenham, under Ange Postecoglou, Spurs have sought versatile attackers who can break defensive lines and create chances. With James Maddison as the primary creator, Rayan Cherki could operate alongside him in the attacking midfield line or offer rotation across the front three. His technical skill and quick decision-making would thrive in Spurs’ aggressive, possession-based system.
Although Arsenal are not leading the race, Mikel Arteta is believed to admire Cherki’s style. Arsenal could deploy him as an alternative to Martin Odegaard in the right-sided attacking midfield role, or use him as depth for Gabriel Martinelli or Bukayo Saka. His ability to drift into pockets and operate between the lines would complement Arsenal’s positional play model.
Meanwhile, with Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron gone, Newcastle United need a player who can take on defenders and offer consistent end product. Cherki would bring dynamism to Eddie Howe’s side, especially in transitions. His pace and dribbling fit Newcastle’s high-energy, direct approach, and he could flourish alongside Alexander Isak.
Meanwhile, Unai Emery’s Aston Villa side continues to attract rising talents, and Cherki would add creativity to their midfield-three or front line. He would be a natural fit in Aston Villa’s 4-2-3-1, with the freedom to roam centrally or out wide, offering link-up play with Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers.
Rayan Cherki has the talent to be a world-class creator, and at €30-35 million, he is a steal in today’s market. Manchester United and Spurs offer him the right mix of top-level exposure and system fit, but clubs like Arsenal and Newcastle should not be ruled out. The club that acts fastest and most decisively will likely land one of Europe’s most gifted young attackers.
