Man United enter race to sign Lyon forward Rayan Cherki

Manchester United are reportedly leading the pack to secure the signature of Lyon forward Rayan Cherki in the summer.

United are now seen as the leading English team, seriously considering the signing of the French international to England amid Cherki’s confirmation that he will leave Lyon at the end of the season.

Earlier reports by CaughtOffside last week indicated that Cherki’s representatives had already made contact with both Liverpool and Manchester United regarding a potential summer move.

Cherki is said to have a €22.5million (£19million) release clause in his contract

Now, fresh update singles out Man United as the front-runners to sign the versatile forward, who has a €22.5m (£19m) release clause in his contract.

According to the report from journalist Florian Plettenberg, the 21-year-old is not seen as a priority for Liverpool, as they now turn their attention towards Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz.

🚨🔴 Manchester United have entered the race for Rayan #Cherki! #MUFC

Understand he is not a priority for Liverpool – not a hot topic at the moment. The priority for this position is Florian Wirtz. #LFC @berger_pj @SkySportDE 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/kXg3zTaEZL
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 21, 2025

United boss Ruben Amorim will be looking to rebuild his squad after enduring what is to be the worst season in the Red Devils’ history in the Premier League.

Cherki could be a smart signing for United, playing in one of the number 10 positions behind the striker under Amorim.

Despite United’s chase for Cherki, reports have confirmed that Old Trafford bosses have moved ahead to agree terms with Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha, with United accelerating on their first signing of the 2025/26 season.

Cherki, described as a “future Ballon d’Or winner,” could be the star to help turn the fortunes of the club around. He is viewed highly, having already contributed at a strong level, but yet he’s far from reaching his full potential.

With the player already confirming a summer exit, Lyon could likely cash out on him as they find themselves currently entangled in financial difficulties – as reported by French outlet L’Equipe in March, that Lyon could be relegated to Ligue 2, should they not get their finances under control.

The Lyon playmaker enjoyed an outstanding 2024/25 campaign, scoring 12 goals and providing 20 assists in 44 appearances across all competitions.