Following the departure of Ciro Immobile, who has already made an impact in Turkey with a goal and a Super Cup victory on his debut for Besiktas, Lazio are on the hunt for a new forward. The club is not strictly looking for a traditional striker to replace their former captain but is also considering versatile players who can operate in multiple attacking roles. According to Calciomercato, one of the key profiles being evaluated by Sporting Director Fabiani and his team is Rayan Cherki from Lyon.
Lazio’s Interest in Cherki
Rayan Cherki, born in 2003, will turn 21 on August 17. Despite his young age, he has already garnered considerable international experience, having scored in the Europa League and provided over 15 assists in Ligue 1. Currently, Cherki is representing France at the Olympics under coach Thierry Henry, with the semifinal against Egypt scheduled for tonight. Lazio is closely monitoring his performance, and his contract, which expires in June 2025, could allow the club to acquire him at a discounted price of around €12-13 million. The interest from Borussia Dortmund has cooled, as the German club has shifted its focus to other targets.
Cherki’s Versatility
Cherki’s ability to play in various attacking positions makes him an attractive option for Lazio. Under coach Marco Baroni, Cherki could be deployed as an attacking midfielder or further forward. He fits well into both a 4-3-3 and a 4-2-3-1 formation, capable of playing centrally or on either wing due to his ambidexterity. Additionally, he can adapt to a false nine role if needed. This versatility makes him a valuable asset for Lazio’s attacking lineup.
