Chelsea are preparing an opening bid to sign Olympique Lyonnais wonderkid Rayan Cherki, according to ESPN.
The 19-year-old was a revelation for Lyon last season, scoring five goals and assisting six in 39 appearances across all competitions.
He also created 14 big chances in Ligue 1 and was voted into the division’s team of the week three times.
Cherki represented France at the just concluded under-21 European Championship and was one of the standout performers for Les Bleuets despite a disappointing quarter-final exit to Ukraine.
The fleet-footed youngster’s extraordinary dribbling ability was on show in the French league last season, and his ability to play in a variety of attacking positions would be handy for the Blues.
Chelsea have been monitoring Cherki for a while and have identified him as a potential replacement for Christian Pulisic, who is only an official announcement away from joining AC Milan.
The Blues are preparing a bid for the youngster who has been touted as one of the best talents of his generation since coming through the youth ranks at Lyon.
Cherki has two years left on his current deal with Les Gones and is valued at €40 million. Lyon could be forced into a sale due to their recent Financial Fair Play issues.
Chelsea and Lyon have a decent relationship following the transfer of Malo Gusto in January, and the Blues could capitalise on their rapport to strike a deal for Cherki.
The London club have already signed Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson this summer, but there are expected to be more arrivals at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are still negotiating with Brighton & Hove Albion for Moises Caicedo, while they are also interested in Cherki’s U21 teammate Elye Wahi.
The talented Montpellier striker, who notched 19 goals in 33 appearances last season, is valued at €30m, and Chelsea are closely monitoring his situation at the French club.
