According to the Guardian, French giants Lyon are reportedly adamant about retaining Rayan Cherki this summer, despite interest from Chelsea.
Chelsea have been actively involved in the transfer window, offloading unwanted players and acquiring Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson.
However, they are in search of another forward to fill the void left by Christian Pulisic, who is nearing a £18 million move to AC Milan.
The Guardian reports that Chelsea have engaged in discussions with Lyon regarding a potential deal for the 19-year-old Cherki. Nevertheless, the club is resolute in their determination to keep Cherki beyond the summer.
Cherki is regarded as one of the most promising talents to emerge from Lyon’s youth academy in recent times. Since his competitive debut in 2019, he has accumulated over 100 senior appearances for the club.
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In the previous season, he contributed five goals and six assists in 39 matches across various competitions, playing a part in Lyon’s seventh-place finish in the table.
Cherki represented France in the under-21 European Championship and showcased his skills impressively. Despite France’s unfortunate quarter-final exit, Cherki contributed two goals and an assist during the tournament.
Lyon are determined to hold onto their prized asset this summer and would reportedly request a transfer fee of around £50 million from Chelsea. However, Lyon’s financial situation may necessitate his sale.
