Team News: Manchester City leads Cherky s battle, but its first offer of 22.5 million euros was rejected by Lyon

According to the "Team News", Lyon has no intention of accepting Manchester City's first offer of 22.5 million euros for Cherki, and they may need to compensate Cherkin.

Cherky made 44 appearances for Lyon in the 24-25 season, with 12 goals and 20 assists. Cherki and Lyon's contract expires in the summer of 2026. When he renewed his contract with the club in September last year, he set a transfer fee limit to facilitate his departure this summer. At that time, the two parties agreed that if Lyon refuses other clubs' offer to Cherki for no less than 22.5 million euros, the club will have to pay 3 million euros in compensation to Cherki according to the contract, and pay up to four periods.

During this winter window, Dortmund offered a quotation of 22.5 million euros for Cherki, but was rejected by Lyon. They believed that Dortmund's offer did not meet all the necessary conditions to trigger the above terms, so this clause is still valid, which also explains why Manchester City also made a quotation of 22.5 million euros this time. Manchester City currently has a clear lead in the deal, while they must complete negotiations with the players on their personal terms (the two sides are close to reaching an agreement, but there are still some details to be finalized).