Report: Transfer talks accelerate as City prepare next move for Lyon star | OneFootball

City Move for Cherki as De Bruyne Successor Emerges

Manchester City have turned their attention to Lyon’s Rayan Cherki as they look to reshape their midfield following the decision not to renew Kevin De Bruyne’s contract. De Bruyne, a club icon, is set to join Napoli on a free transfer after concerns arose over his persistent injury issues. With the Belgian midfielder nearing the twilight of his illustrious career, Pep Guardiola’s side are determined to bring in fresh creative influence.

Initially, City hoped to land Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, but the financial demands surrounding that deal proved too steep, leaving Liverpool to advance their interest in the German international. As a result, attention has shifted to more financially viable alternatives.

Sources have confirmed to TeamTalk that Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest remains under consideration, though his price tag of £60–70 million has made City lean towards a more affordable and high-potential option in Cherki.

Lyon Hold Firm Despite Gentleman’s Agreement

City’s opening offer for Cherki, according to Sky Sport Switzerland’s Sacha Tavolieri, is around €23 million (£19 million). However, Lyon are standing firm, with Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reporting that the Ligue 1 club ideally want €40 million (£34 million). That figure would nearly double City’s initial proposal, although a compromise of €35 million (£29.5 million) might be feasible.

Despite speculation, there appears to be a gentleman’s agreement in place allowing Cherki to depart for a fee of up to £25 million this summer. This was reportedly part of the understanding reached when Lyon blocked a potential move to Paris Saint-Germain last year.

The player’s contract runs until June 2026, which gives Lyon some leverage, though that power is limited by the fact Cherki is said to have already made his choice.

“Cherki has decided to join Manchester City,” Plettenberg states. “Personal terms were never an issue,” he adds, confirming that a five-year contract is already agreed.

Green Light from Cherki Accelerates City’s Approach

TEAMtalk had earlier revealed on 29 May that Cherki had “said yes” to City’s project. With the player giving his approval, Manchester City have wasted no time in accelerating negotiations. Hugo Viana, City’s director of football, is leading talks and remains optimistic about finalising terms with Lyon.

Cherki, just 21, has been a standout figure for Lyon and has long been tipped as a future star of French football. His ability to operate between the lines, create chances and unlock defences makes him a natural successor to De Bruyne. For Guardiola, securing a technically gifted and tactically intelligent midfielder is crucial for the next evolution of City’s playing style.

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Transfer Plans Expand as Reijnders and Ait-Nouri Near Etihad Switch

Manchester City’s transfer activity is not limited to Cherki. They are pushing to complete deals for other priority positions. A move for Tijjani Reijnders of AC Milan is close to completion. City will pay between €55–57 million initially, with the fee potentially rising to €70 million through add-ons. Fabrizio Romano has provided his trademark “here we go,” with only a medical left to finalise the transfer.

In addition, City are making progress in talks for Wolves full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri. The left-back has agreed personal terms, and discussions between the two clubs are well advanced. The fee is expected to be around £50 million (€59 million).

With City aiming to refresh their squad in key areas, the recruitment of youthful talent is a clear strategy. Guardiola appears keen to build a team that blends technical prowess with tactical discipline, and Cherki fits that profile perfectly.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester City fan’s perspective, the pursuit of Rayan Cherki is both exciting and pragmatic. Losing a legend like Kevin De Bruyne will always sting, but the club’s proactive approach in finding a successor softens the blow. Cherki has been on the radar of top European clubs for years, and at 21, he is at the perfect age to develop under Guardiola’s guidance.

The fee Lyon are demanding, although higher than expected, is not unreasonable in today’s market, especially for a player with Cherki’s ceiling. If City can strike a deal closer to €30–35 million, fans will likely view it as smart business. The fact that the player has already said yes and agreed personal terms is a significant boost, showing that the project at City remains hugely attractive to Europe’s rising stars.

Furthermore, City’s ability to juggle multiple high-level signings in one window without compromising on quality is commendable. Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Ait-Nouri are solid additions, and should they complete those deals alongside Cherki, it will mark another summer of meticulous and well-balanced recruitment.

While fans will miss De Bruyne’s brilliance, the emergence of a new creative core could usher in a fresh era at the Etihad. With Guardiola still in charge and a clear long-term plan in place, the pursuit of Cherki represents more than just a transfer – it signals continuity and ambition.