This month, Olympique Lyonnais faced a significant financial penalty from the DNCG (Direction Nationale du Contrôle de Gestion), placing the club under considerable financial pressure. However, don’t expect a fire sale in the January transfer window just yet.
While Lyon needs to sell players to comply with the ruling, they’re holding out for what they consider fair prices. With the looming threat of relegation to Ligue 2, resolving their financial issues is crucial to avoid this scenario.
This may involve selling key players like Rayan Cherki and Malick Fofana, potentially for less than their market value in the winter transfer window.
Cherki, who signed a two-year extension in September, gives Lyon some leverage in negotiations. However, L’Équipe reports that a January move for him is still very likely.
Despite Cherki’s long-held dream of joining Real Madrid, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring his situation closely.
West Ham United enter the race for Rayan Cherki
The Athletic (h/t TEAMtalk) revealed Hammers chief Tim Steidten has been casting his eye on the Lyon playmaker. The report added: “Tim Steidten, the technical director, has been scouting prospects in Ligue 1.
“Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki is among the targets viewed favourably. Cherki has been on West Ham’s radar since December 2023. The 21-year-old’s contract expires in the summer of 2026.”
Recently, TBR Football reported that Liverpool’s £17 million bid for the 21-year-old is expected to be rejected, with Lyon holding out for £29 million.
