According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have an agreement on personal terms with Rayan Cherki as they take a giant step towards securing the playmaker. Pep Guardiola’s side are now expected to lodge an official bid for the Frenchman, as he seems like the main target to replace Kevin De Bruyne.
Manchester City have acted wisely in the market to replace a player of Kevin De Bruyne’s calibre. They have been looking for the right replacement in the window since the time the Belgian’s fate was decided at the club, as some names had come up as serious options.
Morgan Gibbs-White was a target, although the interest has seemingly cooled off on the Nottingham Forest star as Manchester City have now switched their attention towards another name. Lyon’s Rayan Cherki now appears like their main target to replace the Belgian, as Pep Guardiola’s side are inching closer towards the Frenchman.
Cherki is into the final year of his deal at Lyon and had another productive season with 32 goals and assists for the club across all competitions. Manchester City had already opened talks with the player’s camp, and now, they have an agreement on personal terms.
Cherki is open to joining Manchester City as he seeks a big challenge to further his career, as the Lyon chapter comes to a close. He can be a top talent for the club, and he will have big shoes to fill once he arrives at the Etihad, as replacing De Bruyne will come with it’s pressures.
Apart from Cherki, Manchester City are also planning on other signings, as there are some key positions in Guardiola’s mind. They are closing in on Tijjani Reijnders as he could be the next addition to their midfield, as together with Cherki, Guardiola could have a formidable midfield and attacking setup.
There could be further additions at the back, as that might be the next position on the club’s agenda. They did add a few young stars in January, but they might end up needing some players with experience, while a new left-back could also be on the cards.
