Man City Complete Signing of Rayan Cherki from Lyon for £33.7 Million

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of France international Rayan Cherki from Olympique Lyonnais on a five-year contract, the Premier League champions announced on Tuesday.

City will pay an initial fee of €36 million (£30.4 million) to secure the services of the 21-year-old forward.

Cherki recently impressed on his senior international debut for France against Spain on Thursday, and he will now be available for selection by Pep Guardiola ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

The squad is scheduled to travel to their training camp in Florida later this week in preparation for their opening match against Moroccan side Wydad AC, taking place in Philadelphia on 18 June.

“This is a dream come true for me,” Cherki said in a statement released by Manchester City. “Honestly, to be joining a club like Manchester City and to have the opportunity to take the next step in my career here is something very, very special.

“I have worked so hard for this all my life. I love football, and I cannot wait to continue my development here in Manchester under Pep and his coaching staff.”

Although several clubs in England and Germany expressed interest in Cherki, sources informed ESPN that he was particularly convinced by Guardiola during discussions.

“Everyone knows how good City are — they have been so successful for many years now,” Cherki added. “The responsibility of helping the team continue that success is something I’m ready to embrace.

“I would only have left Lyon for a project I truly believe in, and everything about City suggests I can develop my game and contribute to the team’s future achievements. I cannot wait to show the City fans what I am capable of.”

Cherki departs Lyon having scored 29 goals in 185 appearances for the Ligue 1 club. He is not expected to be the final addition to Guardiola’s squad ahead of the Club World Cup.

AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is also poised to join Manchester City, with a fee of €55 million (£46.5 million) agreed. Reijnders has reportedly been granted permission to leave the Netherlands national team camp in order to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms.