FC Barcelona has made the decision not to enter any auction right now. At the moment, the blaugrana team still doesn't know how much "fair play" they will have available for the next season and doesn't want to make any rash decisions. On the table was a star they liked (and still like) a lot, but it won't be possible: Rayan Cherki. He will leave Lyon this summer, departing through the payment of €22 million (agreed in a verbal pact).
During these last years, many authoritative voices have compared Rayan Cherki's talent to that of Leo Messi. The Frenchman is a footballer who has sparked the interest of half of Europe, but he is set to play for PSG. Although clubs like Barça, Real Madrid, Chelsea, or Manchester City were after him, it seems the Parisian team will win the race.
Rayan Cherki, the clone of Leo Messi, will play for PSG
El Nacional has revealed that Rayan Cherki is set to become a new player for Paris-Saint Germain. Luis Enrique has authorized this signing, believing it can elevate the squad's level for the next season. Barça has already raised the white flag, withdrawing from any type of bid that might occur.
Despite Hansi Flick appreciating his quality a lot and having considered him, the reality is that there are other priorities. In a time of greater economic prosperity, FC Barcelona would have been alert and might have entered bids... but now it's not possible.
Rayan Cherki, Europe's bargain
The 2025-26 transfer market has a name: Rayan Cherki. The young French talent, only 21 years old, is destined to be one of the protagonists of the summer. With 12 goals and 20 assists in the last season, the Olympique de Lyon's attacking midfielder has proven he has more than enough level to make the leap to the European elite.
The French team, however, is going through a delicate economic situation that forces them to sell. According to Madrid-Barcelona, there is a verbal agreement for Cherki to leave for just €22 million, a figure well below his real market value. The big beneficiary will be PSG, which has accelerated to finalize his incorporation as soon as possible.
Rayan Cherki is a very complete player: disruptive, with great vision, goal, and final pass. His versatility allows him to play both as an attacking midfielder and on the wing, making him even more attractive to any coach.