Liverpool may be set to derail Manchester City’s transfer plans as Arne Slot has reportedly cut his holiday short to personally meet with a surprise target.
Fresh off their Premier League title-winning campaign, Liverpool have already begun reinforcing their squad. They’ve secured the signing of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen and are actively pursuing his former teammate, Florian Wirtz, in a potential blockbuster move to Anfield.
Meanwhile, their domestic rivals, Manchester City, are also preparing to bolster their ranks ahead of the Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 18 against Wydad AC in Philadelphia. Pep Guardiola is eager to add new talent to his side before the tournament begins.
City have been linked with several players, including Wolves full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri and Lyon’s attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki. Reports suggest a £25 million deal for Cherki is under discussion.
However, Liverpool could now disrupt City’s pursuit of Cherki, as new manager Arne Slot reportedly flew to France last week to hold face-to-face talks with the 21-year-old. According to David Ornstein, Slot left his holiday early to meet the French star, signalling strong interest from the Merseyside club.
Although Liverpool remain focused on landing Wirtz, they are also keeping other options open and exploring backup plans. Slot’s meeting with Cherki was reportedly arranged prior to Wirtz negotiations gaining momentum.
Cherki, who scored 12 goals last season—including one against Manchester United in the Europa League—has been on the radar of top clubs thanks to his standout displays in Ligue 1.
In an interview with L’Equipe, Cherki expressed his readiness to join a top club like Liverpool or Manchester City:
“I’m ready for any system. I train hard every day—physically and mentally—to be prepared. My priority is making the best choice for my growth, both as a player and as a person.”
He also reflected on his time at Lyon:
“I’ve done what I set out to do at OL—be a real Lyonnais and give my all for the club. I didn’t leave when things were tough. I stayed, I fought, I went through every emotion. That’s what being a man means—facing hardship, fear, even tears, and still going to war for your team.”
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