Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reportedly held face-to-face talks with Lyon playmaker Rayan Cherki, underlining the Reds’ growing interest in the highly rated French midfielder.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a standout campaign in 2024–25, recording eight goals and 11 assists in Ligue 1, along with four goals and eight assists in the Europa League. His form has earned him a senior France call-up ahead of their Nations League semi-final against Spain this week.
With Lyon facing serious financial difficulties, the club is open to selling Cherki this summer, setting an asking price of around €40 million.
According to The Athletic, Slot cut short his holiday to meet Cherki in the south of France, hoping to present his vision for Liverpool’s future and discuss a potential move. The meeting reportedly occurred before Liverpool intensified talks for another midfield target — Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen.
Meanwhile, Manchester City have also held extensive talks with Cherki’s representatives, with Pep Guardiola keen to boost his side’s creative depth following Kevin De Bruyne’s departure.
Despite strong interest from both City and Manchester United, Slot’s personal involvement in discussions could sway Cherki’s decision.
“I’m ready for any system. I work every day, physically and mentally, to be ready,” Cherki told L’Équipe.
“Above all, I’m trying to choose the best option for me, to develop as a person and a footballer.”
Cherki also hinted at being emotionally ready to move on from Lyon, stating:
“I did what I wanted to do at OL… Even when it’s hard, even when you cry, even when you’re scared, you have to go to war for your club.”
Whether Liverpool can outmanoeuvre City in the race for Cherki remains to be seen, but Slot’s early hands-on approach suggests midfield creativity is a clear priority for the new Premier League-winning manager.