Algeria step up Rayan Cherki pursuit, Italy attentive to France U21 international's situation

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Rayan Cherki (21), despite featuring prominently at youth level for France, making 20 appearances and scoring 11 goals at U21 level, has yet to decide his international future. 

The Olympique Lyonnais playmaker has not publically stated his desire in this regard, and as L’Équipe report, his options remain open. Cherki is eligible to play for Algeria through his mother. The Algerian federation had shown interest several years ago, however, it then cooled as the player struggled to build on his promise. 

But in recent months, Algeria’s interest has been re-ignited. The federation, since the start of the season, have begun calling the player in order to understand his intentions at international level. These calls have multiplied in recent weeks, according to L’Équipe.

Through his father, Cherki could also play for Italy. They are observing the situation from afar, however, their enquiries have also increased in recent weeks. In the short term, breaking through into the France team looks like a tall order. Alternative candidates are ahead of Cherki, who is currently behind the likes of Michael Olise and Maghnes Akliouche, two players of a similar age, of a similar profile, and who play in the same position. 

GFFN | Luke Entwistle