Ligue 1 Star Remains a Target for Lazio After Turning down Fulham Offer

Lazio are still keen to sign Lyon attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki next year after falling short in their quest this summer.

The 21-year-old was one of several young stars on Angelo Fabiani’s shortlist, but the deal never materialized. Nevertheless, the Biancoceleste weren’t alone, as other suitors tried to acquire the Frenchman as well, but in the end, he remained at the Stade de Gerland for what should be his final contractual year.

According to Italian football journalist Nicolo Schira, Lazio will be looking to pounce on the opportunity and sign Cherki on a free transfer at the end of the season in what would be a significant coup for the club. The France U21 star is considered amongst the finest young players in Ligue 1.

Lazio Plotting to Sign Cherki on Free Transfer

The playmaker was born and raised in Lyon and climbed through the ranks of OL. He has been a staple in the first team since earning a promotion in January 2020. However, the French-Algerian appears to be heading towards the exit door in June after refusing all contract extension offers.

Schira also notes that Fulham were also on Cherki’s trail. The Premier League side unsuccessfully tried to lure the attacking midfielder to West London last summer. So it remains to be seen if they’ll launch another attempt at the end of the season. Cherki would be able to sign a pre-contract with a new club as soon as February.