Rayan Cherki of Lyon is reportedly being considered by Liverpool to replace Mohamed Salah after the Ligue 1 team faced the prospect of relegation.
Under Arne Slot’s tutelage, the Egyptian has already scored 10 goals in 17 games this season and is in incredible form. His contract expires next summer, though, so he may begin negotiating with international clubs in January, raising questions about his future.
According to L’Equipe, Liverpool is reportedly pursuing Lyon’s emerging star Rayan Cherki in anticipation of Salah’s possible exit. Cherki’s position is being keenly watched by Paris Saint-Germain as well, which makes Liverpool’s pursuit of the young youngster more competitive. Cherki’s current Lyon deal expires in 2026, however it has a one-year extension clause if he stays after his campaign.
Even if Lyon wants to keep him, they could have to let go of Cherki in order to ease their financial difficulties. According to reports, the team faces relegation if they don’t address problems that the National Directorate of Control and Management (DNCG), France’s football financial supervisor, has identified. According to reports, Lyon owes £422 million, and the financial watchdog has barred them from signing any players until their circumstances improve.
Cherki’s move might be a turning point for both Liverpool and Lyon as they prepare for life after Salah and deal with financial uncertainty. For Lyon, it might be the lifeline they need to get through their current crisis, while for the Merseyside club, it’s about keeping their competitive edge.
In the short term, Liverpool fans will hope to see Salah keep scoring the goals as they look primed to recapture the English crown after 11 matches, having opened up a five-point gap with second-placed Manchester City.
