The talented French midfielder has drawn significant interest following an impressive season with Lyon in Ligue 1, where he registered 12 goals across 44 appearances in all competitions. ..Continue Reading
Manchester City has been closely monitoring his situation as they aim to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States.
Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, were also in contention, with manager Arne Slot even cutting his holiday short to meet with Cherki personally.
However, reports indicate that the 21-year-old has opted to join Manchester City, with a contract set to run until 2030.
The deal is expected to be finalized for a fee between £29 million and £34 million, with personal terms reportedly agreed without any complications.
Cherki, who has spent his entire career at Lyon after progressing through their youth academy, is eager to take the next step and join a top club this summer.
“I’m ready for any system. I work every day, physically and mentally, to be ready,” he told L’Equipe.
“Above all, I’m trying to choose the best option for me, to develop as a person and a footballer.”
Cherki added: “You’re never sure of anything. But I’ll say it: I did what I wanted to do at OL, be a true Lyonnais and give everything for my club.
“I didn’t leave the ship in difficulty. I stayed, I gritted my teeth. I cried, I laughed, I was scared. But a man has to be like that, it’s part of his DNA. Even when it’s hard, even when you cry, even when you’re scared, you have to go to war for your club.”
But, Cherki isn’t the only player on the verge of linking up with Pep Guardiola at the Etihad as Tijjani Reijnders is also closing in on a transfer to Man City.
City have agreed a £46.3m deal with AC Milan for Netherlands midfielder Reijnders.
