Manchester City fans have expressed concern about an impending move for Rayan Cherki after seeing his recent social media activity.
After a disappointing campaign that did not bring a trophy, City are moving quickly to get a chunk of their summer transfer business done before their Club World Cup campaign kicks off on 18 June.
With Jack Grealish said to be up for sale if potential suitors pay £40 million, City have agreed deals for AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders and Wolves left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri and are poised to pay £81 million for the two.
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But they are also pushing to bring in Lyon playmaker Cherki as a replacement for the outgoing Kevin De Bruyne and positive steps appear to have been made over a £35 million deal for the 21-year-old.
Simon Mullock of The Mirror reported that City have agreed terms with Cherki, who is expected to join the aforementioned in the coming days.
However, he is currently on international duty with France and excited City fans with a stunning cameo in the 5-4 Nations League semi-final defeat to Spain on Thursday night.
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On his senior debut for the national team, Cherki scored an exquisite volley to make it 5-2 and then set up Randal Kolo Muani's header in stoppage time with a superb cross from the right flank.
What did Rayan Cherki do on Instagram?
In response to his outrageous display, Parisian music producer DJ Snake weighed on and commented, "The price went up @ManCity" on Instagram.
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That comment was liked by Cherki after the game, causing reaction aplenty from City supporters.
One fan on X wrote: "Don't want to make you panic but look at this hahaha."
Another said: "We need a here we go ffs."
A third added: "Who cares, he's worth every penny!!"
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A fourth raised concern, commenting: "IF Lyon raised the price after last night performance then I could see a world where City leaves negotiations…"
What has Rayan Cherki said about his future?
Cherki is widely reported to have agreed a five-year contract with City and the player appeared to hint at a deal being on the verge of completion after his France debut.
Speaking to Telefoot, via The Mirror, Cherki said: "It's getting done. But you already know my answer, everybody knows. But there's still a game to play. Now we have to enjoy and give everything, but after it will be done."
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City will need to move quickly to announce the deal prior to Tuesday, which is the final deadline to sign new players for the Club World Cup.
Cherki still has international commitments with France as they take on Germany in the Nations League third place play-off on Sunday.
If he does not leave Lyon this summer, Cherki will extend his contract until 2027 as part of a clause in his contract.
Cherki scored 12 times and registered 20 assists in all competitions for Lyon in the 2024/25 campaign.
Topics: Manchester City, Lyon, France, Fan Reactions
Josh Lawless