Rayan Cherki, the 20-year-old French playmaker, has become a prime target for both Chelsea and Newcastle United as the summer transfer window approaches. Lyon, his current club, is open to selling him for a fee estimated at around €25 million, according to reports from Fichajes.
Despite being considered one of Lyon’s top prospects, Cherki’s season has been tumultuous, with sporadic appearances and a lack of regular starting opportunities. This situation has led to speculation that he may seek a move away from the club, following the path of former academy stars Bradley Barcola and Castello Lukeba.
Chelsea want Rayan Cherki
Aware of Cherki’s contract situation, Lyon is prepared to sanction his departure for €25 million. While this fee may seem steep for a player with an expiring contract in June, clubs interested in Cherki, including Chelsea and Newcastle United, are expected to explore negotiations to lower the price.
Chelsea and Newcastle are among several clubs vying for Cherki’s signature, with the allure of the Premier League and the prospect of regular playing time enticing for the young talent. Despite Lyon’s apparent lack of enthusiasm for retaining Cherki beyond this season, he remains a coveted prospect for clubs looking to bolster their ranks with promising young players.
Having previously turned down an offer from Fulham in January, Cherki seems determined to join a more prestigious club, with a move to the Premier League potentially on the cards. While neither Chelsea nor Newcastle can offer Champions League football next season, both clubs are building projects centred around young talent, which could appeal to Cherki’s ambitions for the future. As the summer transfer window approaches, the competition for Cherki’s signature is likely to intensify, with Chelsea and Newcastle United poised to make their moves for the talented young playmaker.
The Reds want Pedro Marques
Pedro Marques, the current technical director of Benfica, has reportedly caught the eye of Liverpool. According to reports, Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, began planning a new organizational structure upon Michael Edwards’ arrival at the club. Marques’ exceptional work at Benfica makes him a desirable addition to Liverpool’s team.
Earlier this week, Michael Edwards returned to Liverpool to take on the role of chief executive officer for football at the age of 44. He will be responsible for both Liverpool and another club he helps purchase and oversee. Marques is expected to be hired by FSG to assist with talent acquisition on a global scale as the technical director.
The relationship between Marques and Liverpool began to develop in 2022 when Liverpool’s former sports director, Julian Ward, met with Benfica representatives during Darwin Nunez’s transfer. It is rumoured that Richard Hughes will soon be appointed as Liverpool’s next sports director. Liverpool’s pursuit of a new manager before the season ends indicates they are preparing for Jurgen Klopp’s departure. Klopp has expressed his intention to take a summer break from management, leaving a void that will be challenging to fill. Xabi Alonso, a former Liverpool midfielder, is a possible candidate to replace him.
