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Liverpool’s first Premier League title under Arne Slot has done little to quell the urgency of a transformative summer at Anfield, with replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold’s creative output among the most pressing challenges.

The right-back’s impending free transfer to Real Madrid has left a 12-assist-per-season void that needs to be addressed.

Sporting director Richard Hughes faces the dual task of maintaining fiscal discipline while identifying cost-effective solutions – a balance that has led Liverpool to Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder whose €22.5 million release clause aligns perfectly with the club’s opportunistic transfer philosophy.

Liverpool’s interest in Cherki, first reported in December 2024, seems to have now intensified following PSG’s confirmation that they hold “no intention” to reignite last summer’s failed pursuit

The Frenchman’s €22.5 million exit clause – a “gentleman’s agreement” struck during his 2024 contract extension – provides rare value for a player with 31 goal contributions this season.

Rayan Cherki in Men’s Top 5 Leagues

Benjamin Quarez of Le Parisien has now reported that Liverpool has now made a fresh enquiry over the 21-year-old with a summer move in mind.

However, the Reds are not alone in their admiration with Tottenham and Manchester City making inquiries of their own.

Cherki’s near-move to PSG last summer unravelled at the contractual stage despite Luis Enrique’s personal overtures.

Lyon president John Textor revealed the player ultimately “refused PSG” before a proposed switch to Dortmund collapsed over structural disagreements.

These aborted transfers left Cherki at Lyon, where his 12 goals and 19 assists in 2024-25 have multiplied his market value beyond the release clause.

At 21, Cherki aligns with Liverpool’s model of acquiring players approaching their prime.

His 43-game season demonstrates durability, while Lyon’s financial distress ensures negotiability – Textor must sell before June 30 to satisfy DNCG  auditors ( equivalent to PSR rules in England).

He impressed the footballing world with his performance against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Europa League quarter-final second leg, even if the Ligue 1 side fell short at the bitter end.

There will be some significant competition for the French U21 international’s signature, especially if Manchester City want to compete for the attacker.

But for Liverpool, it’s clear that Cherki will go a long way in plugging the creative gap left by Trent Alexander-Arnold.

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