Club director confirms Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid target rejected PSG

Throughout the summer, Rayan Cherki was at the centre of transfer speculation regarding his departure from Olympique Lyonnais. There was significant talk about a potential move to Paris Saint-Germain, with a deal reportedly close to 15 million euros.

However, the transfer did not materialise, and Cherki remains at Lyon. Recently, OL president John Textor commented on the situation.

PSG had long shown interest in Cherki, and it is reported that Luis Enrique even contacted the player. Although the transfer seemed imminent, the deal fell through, partly due to interference from Borussia Dortmund. In the end, Cherki also did not join the German club.

Club director confirms Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid target rejected PSG

During a press conference (h/t Le10Sport), Textor discussed the failed transfer, stating:

"He is a great player. Yes, he has helped us win important matches and I’m sure he can continue to contribute, but from the moment a player refuses PSG…"

Textor also expressed his feelings about selling players to PSG:

"I don’t like the idea of selling to PSG, but I wanted to honour his wish, and it didn’t work out. I’m not exactly sure why. If he refuses to go to PSG and also turns down Dortmund, he has the right to do so. He didn’t see himself in England."

My feelings about Cherki are mixed. While I believe he is an exceptionally talented player, his inconsistency might not suit PSG well. However, I thought the same about Ousmane Dembele, and he’s currently shining under Luis Enrique's management.

In the end, Paris Saint-Germain signed Desire Doue, and with Bradley Barcola, Marco Asensio, Kang-In Lee, and Dembele himself, I think the team's wing positions are well covered.

Cherki was also linked with Real Madrid for months, but it seems the Madrid side ultimately decided not to pursue his signing.