The chosen one: Manchester City advance in talks to sign 21-year-old as De Bruyne replacement

Manchester City have started making moves to replace Kevin De Bruyne and have contacted representatives of Lyon midfielder Rayan Cherki.

The playmaker is currently the club’s top target for the attacking midfield position, as they seek to bolster their creativity following Kevin De Bruyne’s departure and the potential exit of Jack Grealish.

The Frenchman has risen to the top of City’s list after the club’s pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White and Florian Wirtz fell through.

Manchester City have made initial contact with representatives of Lyon midfielder Rayan Cherki, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

🚨🔵 Manchester City made contact to start initial talks for Rayan Cherki as target for #10 position.

He’s top of the list with Morgan Gibbs-White after Wirtz deal off, while Cherki’s also aware of Man City interest. pic.twitter.com/YvQPEXoumr

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 29, 2025

Various sources report Cherki has an agreement with Lyon’s management that he can leave the club this summer for €25 million.

The midfielder had a standout season with “Les Gones,” registering 12 goals and 20 assists in 44 appearances.