Rayan Cherki has officially confirmed he will leave Lyon this summer, bringing an end to his long-standing spell with the French club.
Cherki penned a contract extension with Lyon last summer, committing to the club until 2026 to avoid a free exit—but the deal includes a modest release clause. Earlier this week, it was reported that Liverpool, Tottenham, and Manchester City have all made inquiries about Cherki, with PSG also linked to the Lyon star.
Cherki himself confirmed the news on Saturday night after Lyon’s final game of the season. He emotionally said: “I’m ready to try a new chapter in my career. Thanks to OL, the coach, the staff, the president, my teammates and all people at the club.”
The 21-year-old reportedly has a $25 million (£19 million) release clause, and has enjoyed a standout season with eight goals and 10 assists in Ligue 1.
The 21-year-old also found the net in both legs of Lyon’s Europa League quarterfinal clash with Manchester United. When asked about his future during a recent press conference, Cherki didn’t rule out the possibility of a summer move.
“I don’t know,” he said. “In any case, I know that I gave everything for the club. I did everything I could for Lyon. This is a club that I will never forget and that will always remain in my heart. I stayed when many players left. Today, I have no regrets. Whatever happens, I will give everything until my last minute for the club.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Lyon are dealing with financial difficulties, and with Cherki confirming his departure with 12 months left on his contract, the club may be forced to sell him at a cut-price fee this summer. Recent reports suggest that Cherki, currently earning £65,000 ($86,000) a week in France, favours a move to Anfield this summer.
However, he may have to wait, as Liverpool’s interest in Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz could delay any progress. With Bayern Munich seen as the more likely destination for Wirtz, Cherki’s potential switch to Merseyside remains on hold — but not off the table. Cherki is a versatile attacker, primarily operating from the right wing but also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or on the left.
While he wouldn’t immediately displace Mohamed Salah, he could provide valuable cover and rotation options across the frontline. With Salah’s contract set to expire when Cherki turns 23, the Frenchman could emerge as a long-term successor on the right flank, while also contributing in other attacking roles in the meantime. However, with Jeremie Frimpong said to be heading to Anfield, there could be some competition as to who will succeed the Egyptian King.
