Transfer Round Up: Rayan Cherki on Atalanta's Radar as Gian Piero Gasperini Eyes Young Talent

Atalanta is eyeing Lyon's talented attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki, with a potential offer of €25 million plus bonuses on the table.

Latest Transfer Updates and Speculation

According to TribalFootball's transfer expert Rudy Galetti, several high-profile transfer rumors have emerged in recent days. One of the most notable developments involves Atalanta's interest in signing Rayan Cherki in January. Additionally, Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly contemplating the next step in his career.

🚨💰 #Atalanta would be willing to offer ~€25m (+ bonuses) for #Cherki and have informed #OL of their interest, but NO formal bid has been made yet.

❌ Moreover, to date, no direct talks with Rayan, as @APaglia7 told.

📌 There are still many steps to take for the 🇫🇷 AM. 🐓⚽ pic.twitter.com/iSUDgZY7iF

— Rudy Galetti (@RudyGaletti) January 6, 2025

Jonathan David is another player generating significant interest, with Saudi Arabian clubs eyeing a potential move for the striker. As reported earlier in December, David's agent Nick Mavromaras has been in talks with interested clubs, outlining steep demands. These include commissions exceeding €10 million and a salary for David starting at €6 million per year on a four or five-year deal.

Jonathan David Transfer Update: Inter Milan and Al Nassr Intensify Pursuit

Several top European clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Inter Milan, have recently inquired about Jonathan David's transfer terms. Inter Milan, in particular, is looking to accelerate their pursuit of the Canadian striker, aiming to outmaneuver their competitors.

Al Nassr, a Saudi Arabian club, has also entered the fray, aggressively targeting David as a prime attacking reinforcement. The club is preparing a substantial offer, which includes approximately €10 million for Lille, €8 million for David's agent, and a three-year contract worth over €6 million annually for the player. However, the proposal is currently on hold, pending a review of the club's transfer strategy by newly appointed CEO Majed Al Jamaan.

While David's preference is to remain in Europe, the lucrative offer from Al Nassr could potentially sway his decision. Lille, eager to avoid losing David on a free transfer in June, appears willing to accept a bid of this magnitude.

Jonathan David Transfer Update: Inter Milan and Al Nassr Intensify Pursuit

Several top European clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Inter Milan, have recently inquired about Jonathan David's transfer terms. Inter Milan, in particular, is looking to accelerate their pursuit of the Canadian striker, aiming to outmaneuver their competitors.

Al Nassr, a Saudi Arabian club, has also entered the fray, aggressively targeting David as a prime attacking reinforcement. The club is preparing a substantial offer, which includes approximately €10 million for Lille, €8 million for David's agent, and a three-year contract worth over €6 million annually for the player. However, the proposal is currently on hold, pending a review of the club's transfer strategy by newly appointed CEO Majed Al Jamaan.

While David's preference is to remain in Europe, the lucrative offer from Al Nassr could potentially sway his decision. Lille, eager to avoid losing David on a free transfer in June, appears willing to accept a bid of this magnitude.

Tottenham Hotspur Target Nicolo Fagioli and Johnny Cardoso to Strengthen Midfield

Tottenham Hotspur has emerged as the frontrunner to sign Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli, valued at approximately €25 million. Fagioli's departure from Juventus seems increasingly likely, given his limited playing time under coach Thiago Motta. The Italian midfielder's recent omission from the starting lineup in the Italian Supercup semi-final against Milan has further fueled his desire to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Despite his gratitude to Juventus for their support during his betting suspension, Fagioli is eager for a fresh start abroad, with the Premier League and Tottenham Hotspur being his top preferences. Spurs coach Ange Postecoglou is a strong admirer of Fagioli and believes he would be a key addition to address the team's ongoing struggles this season, as well as their defensive challenges due to numerous injuries.

Fagioli's agent is set to meet with Tottenham representatives in the coming days to discuss the potential transfer and evaluate the margin for negotiation. In addition to Fagioli, Tottenham is also exploring other midfield options, including a potential move for Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis. This development suggests that Spurs are actively seeking to strengthen their midfield and are considering multiple targets to achieve this goal.

Atalanta Set Sights on Lyon's Rayan Cherki

Atalanta has expressed strong interest in acquiring the services of Rayan Cherki, Lyon's talented attacking midfielder. Although no formal bid has been submitted, sources close to the Italian club indicate that they are prepared to offer a substantial package worth around €25 million plus bonuses to secure the Frenchman's services.

While Atalanta is eager to invest in Cherki's potential, direct talks between the club and the player have yet to take place. The 20-year-old midfielder, widely regarded as one of France's brightest talents, remains to be convinced about Atalanta's sporting project in Bergamo. His exceptional technical qualities have caught the attention of Atalanta, who envision him as a key figure in their pursuit of success in both Serie A and the Champions League.

To persuade Cherki to join their ranks, Atalanta must present a clear and compelling vision for his role within Gian Piero Gasperini's tactical system. This will be crucial in convincing the young midfielder that Atalanta is the ideal destination for him to grow and develop as a player.

Gian Piero Gasperini Prepared to Manage Rayan Cherki's Temperament

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini is reportedly willing to work with Rayan Cherki's strong personality, drawing parallels with his experience in managing Nicolò Zaniolo. Despite Zaniolo's occasional outbursts, Gasperini has helped him mature both technically and behaviorally, suggesting that he is confident in his ability to handle Cherki's temperament.

Although concrete developments have yet to emerge, Atalanta's readiness to make a significant financial investment underscores their serious interest in acquiring Cherki's services. The club's willingness to commit substantial resources demonstrates their conviction that the young French midfielder would be a valuable addition to their squad.

Manchester United and Liverpool Monitor Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's Situation

Manchester United are closely monitoring Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's situation, but their interest may wane if they address their immediate needs during the January transfer window. Meanwhile, Liverpool remain in the running, having previously explored negotiations with the player in late August. The Reds continue to track Kvaratskhelia's situation, and a renewed approach in the coming weeks could set the stage for a potential summer transfer.

Cristiano Ronaldo Contemplates His Future

Cristiano Ronaldo is thoughtfully considering his future as he approaches the twilight of his illustrious career. Still driven by a desire to win trophies, Ronaldo aims to lead Al Nassr to a historic victory in the AFC Champions League. However, he acknowledges that he needs a strong supporting team, as his physical capabilities no longer allow him to carry the attack single-handedly.

Ronaldo Weighs His Options

With his contract set to expire in June, Ronaldo is not rushing into any decisions. He is considering three possibilities: continuing at Al Nassr, potentially leveraging the arrival of the new CEO to push for squad reinforcements, returning to Portugal, or retiring from professional football. Ronaldo has expressed a desire to retire after the 2026 World Cup, but a successful campaign in the AFC Champions League could lead him to reconsider and potentially bring his career to a close on a historic high note.

A Legacy-Driven Decision

Ronaldo's period of introspection highlights his dedication to meticulously planning the final chapter of his journey. He is determined to ensure that his retirement reflects the excellence and legacy that have defined his time in football. As he weighs his options, Ronaldo is focused on making a decision that will cement his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.