Liverpool has shown interest in Lyon’s attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki, who previously received high praise from Thierry Henry for his progress as a playmaker.
Currently, Liverpool is advancing in talks to sign Florian Wirtz, the 22-year-old attacking midfielder from Bayer Leverkusen. Although Wirtz has become the top target, the club had evaluated other players before settling on him.
Initially, Bayern Munich appeared to be the front-runner for Wirtz’s signature, followed by interest from Manchester City. Real Madrid, with Xabi Alonso’s potential return to Spain, was also in the picture.
However, Liverpool now seems to be leading the race, with negotiations ongoing as Wirtz reportedly favors a move to Anfield. Cherki, who is also on Manchester City’s radar, was among the alternatives considered.
According to The Athletic, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot interrupted his vacation last week to personally speak with Cherki. These discussions reportedly took place before Wirtz emerged as the primary focus, indicating Cherki may have been a backup option.
Cherki had an impressive season, contributing 12 goals and 20 assists. More significantly, as noted by Thierry Henry, he improved his defensive efforts — a crucial trait for fitting into systems led by Slot or Pep Guardiola.
“He’s proven this season that he can deliver what’s expected without the ball,” Henry told L’Équipe. “Previously, he struggled to play consistently because he didn’t contribute defensively. Now that he’s added that element, he’s been able to string together strong performances.
In my view, he should have been competing at the highest level long ago, but it took him time to fully grasp what’s required.”
At Liverpool, Dominik Szoboszlai has been playing in the number 10 role under Slot, offering relentless energy in midfield — a trait that Wirtz also brings.
“He’s been vital all season,” Slot said of Szoboszlai back in February. “People highlight his goals, which matter, but more impressive is how often he wins second balls and regains possession. He runs like two players.”
Slot added that scoring is a valuable bonus for an attacking midfielder wearing the Liverpool jersey.
Liverpool.com analysis: Wirtz naturally brings energy and work rate, and if the deal is completed, he’ll fit well into the squad. Cherki has recently developed those traits too, though they weren’t always part of his game. Wherever he ends up, he now looks ready to succeed.