Report: Liverpool ‘ready to bid’ £18.6m to sign Ligue 1 wonderkid | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Exciting Move for Lyon Star Rayan Cherki

Liverpool, riding high at the summit of the Premier League, are reportedly preparing to bolster their ranks with the signing of Lyon’s Rayan Cherki. As reported by Fichajes, the Reds are poised to meet Lyon’s valuation of €22 million (£18.6 million) for the 21-year-old, who has impressed with his creativity and versatility.

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Liverpool’s Ambitious January Plans

Arne Slot’s first season at Anfield has exceeded expectations. Far from a transitional campaign, Liverpool sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League, with a game in hand, and have stormed through their Champions League group. Yet Slot’s relentless drive for improvement has led to intensified interest in Cherki as a potential addition to an already potent squad.

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Cherki’s profile aligns with Liverpool’s ambitions. The Lyon forward has registered five goals and eight assists in 22 matches this season and boasts experience across multiple attacking positions. His ability to operate as a forward, winger, or attacking midfielder makes him a valuable asset for a squad chasing domestic and European honours.

Lyon’s Financial Challenges and Cherki’s Potential

Lyon’s financial struggles have left them vulnerable in the transfer market, opening the door for Liverpool’s approach. Cherki’s €22 million price tag reflects the club’s need to generate funds, making this a potentially swift deal.

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West Ham are also reportedly interested, but Liverpool’s proactive stance and Slot’s approval of the move could give them the edge. Slot is said to view Cherki as an “ideal option to add dynamism and creativity to his midfield.”

Managing Expectations

While Cherki’s potential is undeniable, he remains a developing talent. The 21-year-old is not expected to make an immediate impact at Anfield but offers significant long-term upside. Slot’s proven ability to nurture young talent could make Liverpool the perfect environment for Cherki to flourish.

For Liverpool, this deal would underline their intent to stay ahead of the competition. Even with a commanding league position, the desire to strengthen demonstrates the club’s determination to build on its success.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The prospect of signing Rayan Cherki is genuinely exciting. While the current squad has been exceptional under Arne Slot, Cherki represents the type of player who can elevate the team’s long-term prospects.

Cherki’s versatility is perhaps his greatest asset. In a league as physically demanding as the Premier League, having a player who can slot into multiple roles offers invaluable flexibility. His goal contributions at Lyon also suggest a player unafraid to take risks and create opportunities—traits that fit perfectly with Liverpool’s attacking philosophy.

However, fans must temper their expectations. At 21, Cherki is far from the finished article. He will need time to adapt to Slot’s high-intensity system and the rigours of English football. But with the guidance of a manager known for developing young talent, Cherki could become a key figure for Liverpool in the years to come.

This transfer also signals Liverpool’s intent under Slot’s leadership. Even from a position of strength, the club is unwilling to stand still. Strengthening now, when the team is performing well, is a proactive move that could pay dividends in the title race and beyond.

For Liverpool fans, the idea of Cherki donning the famous red shirt is a tantalising one. If the deal is completed, it would reflect the club’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to securing its future at the top of English and European football.