Textor Reveals Cherki Came Close to Joining PSG
Former Lyon Owner Reveals Rayan Cherki’s Near Move to PSG
Ex-Lyon president John Textor has disclosed that current Man City player Rayan Cherki was on the brink of signing with PSG for a reduced fee.
## Cherki’s Transition to Man City
Cherki, 22, finalized his transfer to Man City for approximately £34 million before the Club World Cup in June, following an impressive 2024-25 season with Lyon.
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The talented playmaker has quickly adapted to Pep Guardiola’s system, achieving five goals and eight assists in 22 appearances across all tournaments.
## Textor’s Insights on the Transfer Saga
However, former Lyon president Textor notes that the situation might have played out differently, as Cherki was very close to moving to PSG.
“Cherki was meant to go to PSG for €15 million,” Textor explained, through RMC Sport.
“There was an unusual clause within his contract. It wasn’t a standard release clause, but it provided him a chance to leave.”
“Ultimately, if he had been completely our player without these complexities, we would have received a higher transfer fee.”
“Nonetheless, securing over €30 million for a player whose release clause was significantly lower is a strong outcome from a financial perspective.”