Rayan Cherki signals PSG interest with a transfer message that may challenge Premier League giants

One of the season’s standout performers: 12 goals, 19 assists

Rayan Cherki emerged as one of Lyon’s most outstanding players this season, producing 12 goals and 19 assists across all competitions. His impactful displays during Lyon’s run to the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals, particularly against Manchester United, brought him back to the forefront of European football.

Not a classic wide player — a modern, productive profile

Deployed on the right wing but also capable of operating as an attacking midfielder, Cherki stands out with his ability to dictate play, create chances, and make decisive decisions. His dribbling quality, vertical passing, and problem-solving in tight spaces take him beyond conventional positional definitions.

Clear signals towards PSG: “Ousmane and Bradley are close friends of mine”

At the 2024–2025 Ligue 1 Team of the Season awards ceremony, Cherki shared the spotlight with Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola, Achraf Hakimi, Vitinha, Marquinhos, and Gianluigi Donnarumma — all PSG players. As the only attacking player selected from a club outside Paris, Cherki was asked whether he would like to play in the same team as those listed:

"Absolutely yes. Ousmane and Bradley are very close friends of mine. The chemistry on the pitch is also felt off the pitch,"

he replied. When asked, “Are you flirting with PSG?” he simply smiled and said:

"I don’t know."

A long-standing desire to join PSG: John Textor’s revelation

These statements take on greater significance when combined with a past transfer request. In January 2025, Lyon owner John Textor publicly stated that Cherki had messaged him the previous summer, saying, “I want to go to PSG.” However, Textor declined the request based on the club’s principle not to sell players to PSG and had conveyed this stance to PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi.

Contract until 2026 — but Lyon may be ready to sell

Cherki’s contract with Lyon runs until June 2026, but the club appears open to exploring transfer options before entering the final year. His high market value and age profile make him one of Lyon’s most valuable potential sales.

Lyon management under financial pressure

Although Lyon’s progress to the Europa League quarter-finals marked a sporting achievement in the 2024–2025 season, the club faces serious financial difficulties behind the scenes. In November 2024, France’s financial watchdog DNCG imposed a temporary threat of relegation to Ligue 2 due to oversight issues. According to Le Monde and L'Équipe, the club must raise approximately €175 million by June 2025. This pressure has increased the likelihood of selling young talents, with Cherki emerging as one of the most prominent candidates.

Premier League giants on high alert

According to Le Parisien, Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City, and Manchester United have been monitoring Cherki throughout the season and could take formal steps during the summer transfer window. Notably, Manchester United invited Cherki to their facilities when he was just 15 years old, indicating a long-standing interest.