Journalist shares the message he's 'just' received about Newcastle's interest in Rayan Cherki
Today at 06:45 AM
The January transfer window is just a few weeks away, and Newcastle United could be active.
The Magpies had a very quiet summer, but they could be busy in the winter.
Newcastle are looking at two key positions in January – centre-back and right winger.
Marc Guehi is a January target at centre-back, while Newcastle are keen on Johan Bakayoko down the right flank.
Bryan Mbeumo is also a Newcastle target heading into January.
Rayan Cherki is another player who could be available this winter, and according to Dean Jones, speaking on the Ranks FC Podcast, the Tyneside club's interest in Cherki is genuine.
Newcastle interested in Rayan Cherki
Jones says that he's received a message confirming Newcastle's interest in Cherki.
The journalist says that he's been told that key recruitment figures at St James' Park do like Cherki, but they still need to do a deep dive into the background of the player.
"Listen, mate, I did just get a reply about Cherki," Jones said.
"He says, let me try and put this into words that are acceptable to talk on a podcast without giving them away too much."
"Basically, there is actually long term interest in him from Newcastle and there are a couple of the big figures in terms of recruitment that are interested in him.
"They haven’t actually done a deep dive into his background and more personal life at this stage, which would need to be done because they would want to make sure that his personality is a good fit and that he’s going to take to life."
"I’ll be honest, I think the Tonali situation has scared Newcastle a little bit. It’s no judgment on any individuals. It’s just like, let’s make sure we know everything there is to possibly know about any future signings."
Who else wants Rayan Cherki?
Newcastle are keen on Cherki, but, unfortunately, they're not the only team looking at the young winger.
Lyon are in financial trouble as things stand, and that has put a number of top clubs on alert.
It's not hard to understand why top clubs are keen on Cherki.
Indeed, as Jones says, this young man is a joy to watch. He's the embodiment of a human highlight reel.
Liverpool are keen on Cherki, while Chelsea have recently scouted the attacker.
Fulham bid for Cherki in the summer, so don't be surprised if they return to the table too.
Of course, Newcastle's financial power does give them the edge in this race, but, as we saw in the summer, Profit and Sustainability rules can quickly put Newcastle's transfer plans on hold.
Given Lyon’s financial troubles at the moment, Cherki is likely to be on the move in January, but whether or not he ends up at Newcastle remains to be seen.
