Report: Liverpool and Chelsea in £17m Race for Lyon Striker | OneFootball

Liverpool Target Lyon’s Rayan Cherki Amid Financial Turmoil

Liverpool’s relentless march towards Premier League supremacy sees them eyeing the January transfer window for reinforcements. Sitting atop the league, Arne Slot’s men are determined not to rest on their laurels, with Manchester City and Arsenal expected to strengthen in January.

A key target in this window appears to be Lyon’s rising star, Rayan Cherki. As TuttoJuve reports, Liverpool and Chelsea have both tabled £17m bids for the 21-year-old forward, with Lyon’s dire financial situation—reportedly £500m in debt—forcing their hand.

Cherki’s Potential at Anfield

At first glance, Cherki’s stats might not immediately impress. The French international has managed just one league goal last season and a single strike this term. Yet, the potential for development is undeniable. Already capped at U23 level for France and noted for his versatility across the frontline, Cherki could offer Liverpool a dynamic option for the future.

Cherki has also been branded a ‘lethal’ finisher on his day, the report highlights. For Slot, the player’s adaptability mirrors that of current stars like Mohamed Salah, Luis Díaz, and Diogo Jota—an invaluable trait for the team’s fluid attack.

Photo: IMAGO

A Bargain in a Tough Market?

At just £17m, Cherki could be a long-term investment rather than an instant solution. With Federico Chiesa potentially returning to Italy, the need for depth in Liverpool’s attack grows. Cherki’s ability to play multiple roles fits Liverpool’s ethos of moulding young talent into world-class players.

As financial issues plague Lyon, Liverpool might seize the opportunity to secure Cherki at a cut price. With similar acquisitions paying dividends in the past, this move could prove pivotal not only for this season but for years to come.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The prospect of signing Rayan Cherki is one that excites and divides Liverpool fans. At £17m, it’s a relatively low-risk move for a player touted as a future star, but the lack of immediate impact could frustrate those craving instant results. Liverpool fans are no strangers to seeing young talent blossom at Anfield, and under Arne Slot, there’s every reason to believe Cherki could follow the same trajectory.

The scepticism around his modest goal return is valid. However, his reputation as a ‘lethal’ finisher and his versatility make him a compelling option. Slot’s ability to extract the best from players is a hallmark of his tenure so far, and Cherki could thrive in this environment.

Given Lyon’s precarious financial state, this could be a case of striking while the iron is hot. Cherki may not be the final piece of the puzzle this season, but his acquisition could lay a strong foundation for the future. Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but Liverpool’s calculated moves in the transfer market suggest they’re playing the long game.