Manchester United are on the cusp of signing Matheus Cunha, but they’re also keen to poach Olympique Lyonnais’ Rayan Cherki.
The 21-year-old is a sensational talent who has been threatening to explode on the scene for quite some time now. After all, he’s been part of Lyon’s first team since January 2020. However, the Frenchman was at times impeded by his own demeanour which saw him relegated to the bench.
But after several frustrating campaigns, Cherki is finally delivering on his initial promise, putting it all together to re-emerge as one of the most exciting young players in Europe. The winger’s statistics speak volumes, as he has already scored 12 goals and provided 19 assists in 41 appearances in all competitions.
The Frenchman also showcased his talent against the Red Devils in the Europa League quarter-finals. Even though Ruben Amorim’s men pulled off a surreal comeback to win 7-6 on aggregate, Cherki’s brilliant displays over the two legs haven’t gone unnoticed.
According to CaughtOffside, United were so impressed with the winger that they have intensified their efforts to sign him over the past few weeks.
Man United & Spurs leading the race for Rayan Cherki
The source identifies the Reds as the favourites to land Cherki alongside Tottenham, even though a host of suitors all across Europe are following the situation closely. This includes the likes of Crystal Palace, AC Milan, Juventus, Bayer Leverkusen, Arsenal, Newcastle United and Aston Villa.
It should be noticed that Man Utd are reportedly ‘very close’ to finalising their agreement with Wolves striker Cunha who has a release clause of £62.5 million.
Nevertheless, this wouldn’t necessarily rule out a move for Cherki whose price tag is significantly lower. The youngster’s contract with OL will expire in June 2026. Hence, the Ligue 1 side would be willing to sell him on a cut price to avoid losing him for free a year later.
The source thus believes Cherki would only cost €30-35 million, which is considered a bargain for a ‘wizard’ of his age.
Interesting suggestions abound, but the vital point is, are these signings wanted by Amorim? Or is it United doing their usual post-Fergie trick of saying ‘ooh, he’s a good player, he’ll definitely improve us’
Like Antony, Van de Beek, Fellaini, Di Maria, and so on and so on. Imperative that they are players Amorim wants for his system.
Thanks a lot for reminding me about Felaini…..Hahaha..where is he now?
Man united need a prolithic goal scorer which is not Delap as this could be a repeat of the current center forward issue. M U management need to bite the bullet and go all out for Osimhen. There are no other viable options as I see it. I think MU supporters would accept bringing in players from the youth teams for further development. REMEMBER THE BUSBY TEAM OF development players which had raw skilled players who had little dollared value but huge potential which has never been repeated. Why because it all about business to provide shareholders with a profit which appears to be more important than grass roots football development. Regards Barrie Cook. ( NZ)