Transfer Talk: Toon and Red Devils lead Cherki chase

Manchester United and Newcastle are stepping up their interest in Lyon youngster Rayan Cherki.

The 20-year-old, who can play in attacking midfield or anywhere across the forward line, was reportedly unsuccessfully courted by several clubs in the summer window including Chelsea and West Ham.

Cherki may be more open-minded on an exit now after Lyon's dire start to the season, which currently sees them rooted to the bottom of Ligue 1.

Football Insider suggest Premier League interest remains rife in the versatile starlet, who has already racked up 112 senior appearances at club level.

Though goals and assists have not flowed freely for Lyon this term, Cherki has dazzled for Theirry Henry's France Under-21s. 

He has netted an impressive four goals and three assists in Les Bleuets' last three qualifiers — offering a hint of his capabilities in a better team.

His contract with Lyon runs until July 2025 and the club are likely to consider a sale next summer rather than running the risk of losing him on a free.

Whether a January sale is on the cards is less clear, though Erik ten Hag could be tempted to try given the indifferent form of his front line.

Meanwhile, Cherki's profile fits nicely with Newcastle's policy of signing young talent to develop under the watch of Eddie Howe.

In other news

Frank Lampard has told the Obi One Podcast that Chelsea's owners refused to let him sign Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham when he was on Birmingham's books.

Spanish outlet Fichajes say Manchester City will move for Nantes' French U-21s defender Quentin Merlin, 21, in January.

Everton and Juventus are keeping a close eye on Borussia Monchengladbach's Swiss striker Winsley Boteli, 17, according to Fabrizio Romano.