Reds linked forward more likely to join England giants after ‘€22.5m agreement

Liverpool’s pursuit of Lyon starlet Rayan Cherki has been one of the most intriguing transfer sagas leading into the summer window. The 21-year-old French attacker, widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in European football, has attracted significant interest from top clubs, including Liverpool and Bayern Munich. However, recent developments suggest that the German giants may now be in pole position to secure his signature after reportedly reaching a €22.5 million agreement with Lyon.

Cherki’s potential departure from Lyon has been anticipated for months, with the club facing financial difficulties and a provisional relegation to Ligue 2 looming over their heads. This precarious situation has forced Lyon to consider offloading key players to stabilize their finances, making Cherki a prime candidate for a summer transfer. His contract, which runs until June 2026, provides Lyon with some leverage, but the pressure to sell remains high.

Liverpool’s interest in Cherki is well-documented. The Reds have been scouting him extensively, with reports indicating regular monitoring of his performances throughout the season. Cherki’s versatility as an attacking midfielder and winger aligns with Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s vision of reshaping the team’s attacking setup. With Mohamed Salah potentially departing and other forwards like Diogo Jota and Darwin Núñez rumored to be on the market, Cherki could fit into a new system designed to distribute goals across the frontline.

Despite Liverpool’s strong interest, Bayern Munich appears to have taken decisive steps to secure Cherki’s services. Reports suggest that an agreement between Lyon and Bayern is already in place, with the German club prepared to meet the €22.5 million valuation. This development could leave Liverpool scrambling to make a counteroffer if they wish to remain in contention for the Frenchman’s signature.

Cherki’s appeal lies not only in his technical ability but also in his potential for growth. He has been a standout performer for Lyon this season, contributing 24 goals across all competitions, including nine in his last six games. His creativity, vision, and ability to operate in multiple attacking roles make him an asset for any top-tier team. For Liverpool, signing Cherki would address their need for attacking reinforcements while adding depth and flexibility to their squad.

However, Bayern Munich’s interest complicates matters. The German champions are known for their efficiency in securing young talent and could offer Cherki a clear pathway to success in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues. Additionally, Bayern’s ability to provide Champions League football consistently may sway the player’s decision.

Liverpool faces an uphill battle if they are to outmaneuver Bayern Munich in this transfer race. While they have the financial resources to match or exceed Bayern’s offer, timing and decisive action will be crucial. The Reds must act quickly if they hope to convince both Lyon and Cherki that Anfield is the ideal destination.

Ultimately, Cherki’s next move will depend on various factors, including his personal ambitions and the offers on the table. While Liverpool remains a tempting option due to their Premier League stature and competitive aspirations, Bayern Munich’s reported agreement suggests that they are currently leading the race.

As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on how this saga unfolds. Whether Cherki ends up at Anfield or Allianz Arena, one thing is certain: his departure from Lyon will mark a significant step in his burgeoning career and could shape the future of whichever club secures his signature.