Zinedine Zidane has suggested that Real Madrid consider g Rayan Cherki. Yet, despite this endorsement, Los Blancos are not planning to pursue the 21-year-old during the transfer window. Florentino Perez is currently focused on other priorities.
Real Madrid has already announced the acquisitions of Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold, and they are also finalising the transfer of Alvaro Carreras. It seems the club’s strategy, for now, does not include the talented Lyon midfielder, potentially giving other top clubs an opportunity to act.
While Real Madrid shows no interest, other leading European clubs are quickly taking advantage of the situation. Initially, Manchester City appeared to be the frontrunner in securing Cherki’s signature. However, in recent hours, Liverpool has entered the picture, with the Reds’ manager Arne Slot making a personal effort to persuade the Frenchman to move to Anfield.
The situation is evolving rapidly, and Olympique Lyon’s financial troubles are accelerating the likelihood of a transfer. Facing the threat of relegation if debts are not resolved, Lyon may have no choice but to sell Cherki. His current contract runs until 2026, but this represents one of the last opportunities for the club to secure a substantial transfer fee. The player’s market value is currently estimated at 45 million euros.