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The rocky start for Manchester United this season can be attributed to various issues including the ongoing takeover dramas, players struggling to hit form, toxicity around Jadon Sancho, and questions over Erik ten Hag’s strategy and approach.
Amidst these struggles, the team’s offensive woes have been glaring, yet the midfield woes cannot be overlooked. With most of the midfield underperforming, only Bruno Fernandes and Scott McTominay have been able to contribute positively to the team’s goal tally.
In particular, Mason Mount, who dons the iconic no. 7 jersey, was primarily brought for his playmaking skills, has not lived up to expectations since his arrival in Manchester, with his absence from the starting lineup being a telling sign of his current situation.
Recognising the issue of creating opportunities for the team and the need for an additional playmaker to alleviate the pressure on Bruno Fernandes, it’s no shocker that United is keen on Lyon’s Rayan Cherki for a potential move in 2024, a player who is known for his creative prowess.
According to Football Insider, Manchester United is plotting a move to sign 20-year-old Lyon talent, who already has over 100 professional appearances, 14 goals, and 17 assists to his name.
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The club, alongside Newcastle United, are considered serious suitors for Cherki, eyeing a move when the opportunity arises.
Currently part of a struggling Lyon squad, which sits uncomfortably at the bottom of the Ligue 1 standings, Cherki is approaching the end of his contract in 2025. This could position him for a transfer that’s more economical than usual, provided he doesn’t extend his contract with Lyon.
Cherki’s skill set isn’t in question, and should he be available for the right price, it could represent a shrewd acquisition for United.
However, they face stiff competition from Newcastle, a club that has been showing promising progress, contrasting with the trajectory of Manchester United at the moment.
