Chelsea are plotting a swoop for highly-rated Lyon attacker Rayan Cherki to hand Mauricio Pochettino further firepower, according to reports. Pochettino has already splashed a combined £82million to rejuvenate his attack with Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson, and he is targeting a third addition.
According to ESPN, Chelsea are plotting an opening offer for Cherki as Christian Pulisic nears a move to AC Milan.
Lyon are said to value the French wonderkid – under contract until 2025 – at around £34m amid financial fair play troubles.
The Ligue 1 outfit are under pressure to offload some of their star players to recruit this summer, and Cherki isn’t short of suitors.
PSG approached Lyon for his services in January but saw an offer rejected and haven’t yet returned to the frame.
The report claims that Chelsea boast a strong relationship with Lyon after signing full-back Malo Gusto in the winter transfer window.
And it will likely play in their favour as they attempt to lure the 19-year-old attacking midfielder to Stamford Bridge in the coming weeks.
Cherki is comfortable with using both feet and possesses impressive versatility bound to make him an attractive proposition for Pochettino.
He operated as a No 10, winger, second striker and false nine as he recorded a career-best return of four goals and six assists in Ligue 1 last season.
Chelsea were among the clubs watching him closely at this summer’s U21 European Championship, where he caught the eye in France’s run to the quarter-finals.
Cherki previously attracted interest from Zinedine Zidane when the France icon was at the helm at Real Madrid.
Manchester United were also reportedly attempting to recruit him to the club’s academy, but Cherki’s head was turned by news of Real’s interest.
He ultimately ended up staying at Lyon and has flourished into one of Europe’s most exciting teenage talents.
ESPN have named £26m-rated Montpellier striker Elye Wahi as an alternative on Pochettino’s wishlist, but the Blues look set to ramp up their interest in Cherki imminently.
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