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Liverpool-linked Rayan Cherki has responded to interest from both the Anfield club and Manchester City.

The 21-year-old is being heavily courted by Pep Guardiola’s side as an alternative for Florian Wirtz.

At the heart of negotiations lies a verbal understanding between Cherki and Lyon, described by as a “gentleman’s agreement” that allows the player to leave for approximately £25 million (€30 million) this summer.

This arrangement, struck during contract talks in 2024, bypasses France’s prohibition on formal release clauses, which are illegal under the country’s labor laws designed to protect players.

But the ambiguity has already caused friction: Borussia Dortmund’s attempt to activate the clause in January 2025 was rebuffed by Lyon, who argued the lack of a written mechanism invalidated the bid.

Fabrizio Romano has already suggested that the Ligue 1 side will not accept the release clause value, saying, “The best solution is to collaborate with Lyon rather than force the clause.”

Lyon are also under heavy pressure to sell financially, having been provisionally relegated to Ligue 2 by France’s financial watchdog DNCG as a result of their poor financial health.

French outlet Le Parisian linked Cherki to Liverpool in May, while RMC Sport have also confirmed the Reds’ interest.

Now Cherki himself has responded to both Man City and Liverpool questions, speaking in an interview with L’Equipe.

One of the questions put over by the French newspaper was:

“When you look at the clubs interested, Manchester City and Liverpool for example, they are two different styles of football.

Will the system matter?”

The attacking midfielder replied by stating that he was open to either move and that systems or tactics don’t impact his decision-making:

“I’m ready for any system.

I work every day, physically and mentally, to be ready,” he said,

“Above all, I’m trying to choose the best option for me, to develop as a person and a footballer.”

When asked if he is 100% leaving his club this summer, the Frenchman replied:

“You’re never sure of anything.

But I’ll say it: I did what I wanted to do at OL, be a true Lyonnais and give everything for my club.

But a man has to be like that, it’s part of his DNA.”

“Even when it’s hard, even when you cry, even when you’re scared, you have to go to war for your club.”

It’s clear that Man City are currently in the driving seat for his signature.

But the player has also made it clear that he is open to any move, and Liverpool could well return to the fold once Florian Wirtz is finalized – especially if Harvey Elliott is moved on.

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