RB Leipzig is inching closer to sign Lyon wonderkid Rayan Cherki this season. This is according to multiple French and German sources.
The rumour seems to have surfaced after one of the consultants of Cherki has leaked the news on social media. The consultant is reported to have told that he will sell Cherki to RB Leipzig.
What has flamed the rumour is the arrival of Liverpool midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri to Lyon. Cherki seems to have fallen out with the current manager Peter Bosz and is hence considering Leipzig as a potential destination.
CHERKI TO STRENGTHEN LEIPZIG ATTACK
The youngest ever player to feature in a Champions League semi-final, Cherki is another young prospect to come out of the Lyon academy. The attacking midfielder made his Ligue 1 debut in the 2019/20 season.
Last season he was able to play more minutes for his club. In the 27 matches he appeared for Lyon in the Ligue 1, he was able to score once while assisted for 3 goals. A good dribbler, Cherki is excellent in holding the ball. He is also a good passer though he needs to work on his finishing.
The arrival of Xherdan Shaqiri from Liverpool however could signal reduced game time for the youngster. With reports of issues between Cherki and the new manager, a move away looks a good option for an attacking midfielder.
Leipzig in the past has been an excellent option for French players. Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konate, both made their mark with Die Roten Bullen and earned a big-money move to top clubs. Currently, the squad have the likes of Christopher Nkunku, Nordi Mukiele and Mohamed Simakan, who all made the move from France to Germany.
The move could be mutually beneficial for both parties. For Cherki, Leipzig will offer better competition and a chance to feature in the Champions League. Leipzig on the other hand will get a chance to sign one of the most promising youngsters in the world. Cherki, who just turned 18 this month has his contract with Lyon till 2023 and is valued at around €27 million by Transfermarkt.
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