Rayan Cherki is a player who Newcastle United fans would love to see join the club.
The Magpies are crying out for a bit of extra creativity in attack, which is why it was previously reported that Newcastle’s January priority is to sign a winger.
Whether or not that is still the case remains to be seen, as Emil Krafth’s injury may force Newcastle to alter their plans.
Regardless, Newcastle United do need to bring in another attacker in 2025, whether it is in January or the summer. Eddie Howe could benefit from another option out wide, while Toon fans love a maverick.
That is exactly what Rayan Cherki is, with some Newcastle United fans eager for the Lyon youngster to follow in the footsteps of David Ginola, Laurent Robert, Hatem Ben Arfa and Allan Saint-Maximin.
Newcastle United scouts watch Rayan Cherki
The 21-year-old is an extremely gifted footballer, while he is also versatile. He is predominantly an attacking midfielder, but Cherki is capable of operating on either flank too.
That flexibility will appeal to Eddie Howe, with his scouts casting their eye over a player who looks destined to leave Lyon in 2025.
According to iNews, Newcastle United have been watching Rayan Cherki ahead of the January transfer window.
That is exciting, but also not majorly surprising. Following his time at Monaco, Newcastle United sporting director Paul Mitchell knows all about the French market, while he is keen for the Magpies to buy more players from overseas.
Why Rayan Cherki could be available
In doing so, Newcastle will get more value for money. And that could be especially true if they target Lyon’s number 18.
Lyon are one of the biggest clubs in France, but they could find themselves in Ligue 2 next season. That is because they have been provisionally relegated from Ligue 1 due to their financial situation.
Les Gones are more than £400million in debt, and are banned from signing any players in January.
But they will be able to sell. In fact, they need to, as they can avoid relegation to Ligue 2 if they are able to improve their financial woes.
It is a desperate situation for Lyon, but it could create an opportunity for a club like Newcastle United. They are in the market for talented players at affordable prices, with iNews adding that Newcastle insiders expect opportunities like that to emerge.
According to Foot Mercato, Cherki will cost at least £25million.
That is obviously a lot of money, but it could represent a bit of a bargain in the world of football.
If the Magpies are to make a move, Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell will have to agree, with the Toon sporting director recently confirming that they will collaborate on Newcastle’s transfer plans.
Hopefully they are in agreement that Cherki is a special talent who could light up St James’ Park.
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