Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Olympique Lyonnaise attacker Rayan Cherki.
The Blues are in the market for a new attacking midfielder this summer following the departure of Mason Mount, and Christian Pulisic and Cherki has emerged as potential target.
The 19-year-old Frenchman has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge recently following his impressive performances for Lyon.
Cherki, who sees his contract at the Groupama Stadium expire in 2025, featured 34 times for Olympique Lyonnais in Ligue 1 last season, contributing ten goals. He has quickly established himself as a key component in Blanc’s starting lineup, and his impressive performances have attracted the interest of Mauricio Pochettino.
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According to reports, Lyon wants €50 million (£42.7million) for Cherki, though Chelsea feels a deal could be done for closer to €40million (£35.2million).
But Sportsmail claims that Lyon are in a difficult financial position and would be more willing to sell the teenage sensation abroad rather than strengthen a Ligue 1 rival.
Meanwhile, Laurent Blanc has advised Cherki to remain at Olympique Lyonnais for a further year despite interest from Chelsea.
In an interview with French newspaper Le Progres, as quoted by RMC Sport, the 57-year-old said:
“OL must say, okay, if these are figures at an impressive level, but on the other hand, at this price (27 million), I tell him to stay one more year in Lyon,” said the 57-year-old. “I’d really mind if he left. It’s the same for Cherki. Especially since we made room for them, it would be a little early, but maybe I’m being a little selfish.”
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