West Ham United are reportedly preparing a £25 million bid for Lyon’s talented playmaker, Rayan Cherki. Sources from Spain suggest that the Hammers are targeting the 21-year-old as a potential January signing, with Tim Steidten being tasked with improving the teams creativity. Cherki could be brought in to fill the void left by Lucas Paquetá, should his protracted charges for betting irregularities end badly.
Cherki had a rather underwhelming season last year, contributing only one goal and six assists despite featuring in most of his club’s league fixtures. The Frenchman has been lauded as one of Europe’s most promising players for over three years but has yet to reach the heights expected of him. West Ham’s relationship with Lyon is well-established, having successfully negotiated several transfers in recent years, including Said Benrahma moving in the other direction last season.
There’s a certain irony in the potential pursuit of a Paquetá replacement from the very club from which the Brazilian was acquired. West Ham are becoming increasingly anxious about Paquetá’s future, as fresh reports of his family’s involvement in betting on West Ham matches have surfaced. This has raised concerns within the club, dampening optimism regarding Paquetá’s possible acquittal in the FA’s ongoing investigation into betting breaches.
Just watched a you tube channel called the Bobby Moore stand. The video was called Monday reflections/devided fan base again. The guy talks a lot of sense. Hard to believe the knives are out for Looetegui already after only a few games. I’ve even heard people calling for Moyes to come back. But of a joke really.