Real Madrid president rejects move for €22m-rated star due to strategic concerns

According to a report from Real Madrid Confidencial, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has ruled out the signing of Rayan Cherki, despite the 21-year-old Lyon star being available for just €22 million.

The reason? The club’s sporting directors believe there is simply no space for him in the upcoming season under Xabi Alonso.

The decision comes as a disappointment not only for Cherki, who has made no secret of his desire to play at the Santiago Bernabeu, but also for those within Madrid’s inner circle who have previously pushed for his arrival.

Zinedine Zidane, one of Perez’s most trusted figures, had personally recommended Cherki on multiple occasions. But even that was not enough to shift the club’s stance.

A bargain, but Real Madrid not interested
At just €22 million, Cherki is a bargain in today’s transfer market, especially given his technical ability, flair, and potential for growth.

Yet, the depth of Real Madrid’s attacking options, with stars like Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, Brahim Diaz, Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and the integration of Endrick, has led the club to the conclusion that adding another forward makes little sense right now.