Manchester City Have Reached Personal Agreement With 21 Year Old Attacking Midfielder: Why Will It Be A Very Good Move? | OneFootball

Manchester City have been working behind the scenes for weeks to strengthen their squad. The English club have not rested on their laurels from the previous seasons, after a disappointing season in 2024/25 and are already making moves to regain their dominance.

While other teams wait for the July transfer window, Guardiola’s men are stepping up their efforts. City scouts have been tracking several young prospects in France, and one of them has gained momentum in recent weeks. With many clubs keeping an eye on Ligue 1’s gems, the Sky Blues have taken the lead. And now, with the work done behind the scenes, they are about to sign a special talent.

Manchester City Have Reached Personal Agreement With Rayan Cherki

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have already reached a full personal agreement with Rayan Cherki, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder from Lyon. The French player, one of the most promising of his generation, had been on City’s radar for some time. Although others, such as Liverpool, had sounded out his situation, it was City who moved decisively. Cherki has given his approval to the change of scenery and is looking forward to his move to England. In the coming hours, the Manchester club are expected to make a formal offer to Lyon.

DECINES-CHARPIEU, FRANCE – APRIL 10: Rayan Cherki of Olympique Lyonnais during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg match between Olympique Lyonnais and Manchester United at OL Stadium on April 10, 2025 in Decines-Charpieu, France. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Why Will It Be A Very Good Move?

From City’s point of view, this move fits in with their transfer policy. Guardiola has opted for technical players with creativity and versatility, and Cherki offers just that. He can play inside or start from the wing, he has dribbling skills, vision, and skills to take on defenders. Technically, he is well above average for his age, which makes him ideal for the possession style demanded by Guardiola. In addition, the Frenchman’s age allows him to develop without urgency, integrating him gradually, as was the case with Foden.

But there are more layers to this story. Signing Cherki also responds to a broader context: City need to rejuvenate their attack and midfield. Mahrez is gone, and an important player like De Bruyne will also not be there from next season.

Cherki represents the future, but also an immediate option in tight games. He can break lines with ease, something Guardiola values highly. From another perspective, this move can also be seen as a message to the rest of Europe: City do not wait, they act. In a summer where many are still looking at prices, Manchester City are already securing young talent. And Cherki, if he performs as expected, could be a gem in the sky blue system.