Newcastle join transfer race for Ligue 1 star as the club set €35m asking price | OneFootball

Newcastle United are reportedly in the mix for one of Ligue 1’s most exciting young talents, as Rayan Cherki emerges as a potential summer target.

According to CaughtOffside, Premier League giants Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur currently lead the chase, but Newcastle are among the growing list of clubs keeping a close watch on the Lyon attacking midfielder.

Cherki, still just 21, has lit up French football this season with 12 goals and 19 assists across all competitions – a staggering return that has attracted interest from across the continent.

Newcastle join transfer race for Ligue 1 star as the club set €35m asking price

Eddie Howe’s side are in need of a creative spark in midfield, especially with questions surrounding the futures of fringe players like Ryan Fraser and Miguel Almirón. Cherki offers flair, versatility, and end product, making him a perfect profile for a club looking to return to the Champions League.

Lyon have reportedly set a €30–35 million asking price, which could tempt clubs like Newcastle who see the Frenchman’s current market value as a relative bargain. The fee would not break the Magpies’ structure and would still allow space for further signings under Financial Fair Play.

Newcastle have been tracking multiple attacking options this summer, but Cherki's direct style, technical brilliance, and maturity in decision-making make him one of the more compelling names on the list.

Newcastle face tough competition from Man Utd, Spurs, and Bayern

The race for Cherki is far from straightforward. Manchester United, also in the market for a new playmaker, are reportedly pushing hard. Tottenham are equally keen, with manager Ange Postecoglou targeting a player capable of breaking down low blocks.

Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Aston Villa, AC Milan, Juventus, and even Crystal Palace are all linked with the French international. Palace, in particular, view Cherki as a potential replacement for Eberechi Eze, should he leave Selhurst Park.

Yet for Newcastle, the focus will be on whether they can act quickly and decisively. Cherki prefers a move to the Premier League, and with Champions League ambitions still burning on Tyneside, the Magpies could present a compelling project.

With Eddie Howe’s men expected to refresh their midfield this summer, Cherki represents a rare mix of youth, creativity, and value. Now, it comes down to whether Newcastle can beat Europe’s elite to his signature.