Manchester United have been left “very impressed” by the performances of Rayan Cherki following a stunning 7-6 Europa League quarter-final tie between Lyon and Rúben Amorim’s club, sources have told UtdDistrict.
Manchester United pulled off a dramatic comeback to beat Lyon 7-6 on aggregate and reach the Europa League semi-finals, scoring three times in the final 10 minutes of extra time.
With the tie level at 2-2 from the first leg, United took control early at Old Trafford. Manuel Ugarte opened the scoring after slick interplay between Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho, and Diogo Dalot added a second just before half-time.
Lyon came alive in the second half. Corentin Tolisso headed in, then Nicolás Tagliafico levelled the tie. Just before the 90 minutes were up, Tolisso was sent off, leaving Lyon down to ten men for extra time.
Even with a man down, Lyon went ahead through a brilliant strike from Rayan Cherki, and Alexandre Lacazette’s late penalty looked to have sealed the win.
But United had other plans. Fernandes scored from the spot, Kobbie Mainoo curled in a stunner, and Harry Maguire rose highest to head home the winner in added time, completing an unforgettable night and sending Rúben Amorim’s side into the final four.
Sources: United impressed by Cherki’s performance
While much of the focus has been on United’s out-of-this-world comeback at Old Trafford on Thursday evening, one Lyon player left a very positive impression on those at the club.
Sources informed UtdDistrict on Friday morning that many people within United were “really impressed” by the performance that 21-year-old Cherki put in during his 106 minutes at Old Trafford.
United have always kept tabs on the French U21 international, having missed out on signing the player when he was 15 years old, just before he put pen to paper on his first professional contract with Lyon.
Cherki, described as a “maverick” footballer by former United defender Rio Ferdinand, remains an option for the club in the summer market. However, UtdDistrict understands that the club’s interest remains at an early stage, and that concrete moves are yet to take place.
However, following his performance on Sunday evening, the Frenchman’s possible transfer to Old Trafford is certainly one that United fans must keep an eye on as the 2025 summer transfer window opens.
Cherki’s transfer path becomes clear
While United are still waiting to finalise their transfer target lists this summer, as they have yet to determine whether they will qualify for the Champions League next season, Cherki’s potential signing has the bonus of being straightforward.
While the player has a £25 million release clause in his contract, reports have suggested that Lyon would be open to accepting a fee of around £20 million amid their current financial difficulties.
United are not the only club looking to pounce on the talented teen this summer, with Liveprool and Tottenham previously being credited with interest.
Cherki has amassed a stunning 12 goals and 18 assists in 39 appearances for the Ligue 1 outfit this season and was likened to Karim Benzema during his breakout season at Lyon.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (GMT) on the United View YouTube channel.