Cherki missed Dortmund move due to internal club divisions

Internal disagreements among officials prevented Borussia Dortmund from finalizing a transfer for Rayan Cherki, according to reports. The attacking player ultimately signed with Manchester City instead of joining the German club.

Failed PSG and Dortmund negotiations

French sports newspaper L'Equipe stated that Dortmund pursued the Olympique Lyon attacker during the summer of 2024 and again in 2025. Prior to these approaches, Paris Saint-Germain had been close to securing his signature two years earlier. However, Cherki remained at Lyon through those initial periods.

PSG appeared to be the frontrunners for the 23-year-old’s services. He anticipated a €15 million transfer to Paris in the summer of 2024. In response, he sent a voice message to PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi expressing satisfaction with the prospective deal.

Dortmund’s hesitation and PSG withdrawal

The agreement with PSG collapsed partly because Dortmund intervened. The German club promised Cherki playing time that PSG reportedly refused to guarantee. Yet when Dortmund had the opportunity to execute their plan, "internal differences of opinion" emerged regarding the transfer. Consequently, they did not submit a concrete offer.

PSG grew frustrated upon learning that Cherki preferred a move to Borussia Dortmund. The French club withdrew from the negotiation process entirely.

Final contract extension and City transfer

Cherki eventually renewed his contract with Lyon. A year later, he transferred to Manchester City for a fee of €40 million. Although Dortmund expressed interest again in 2025, the high price tag eliminated their chances against Manchester City in the competition for the Frenchman.

He remains under contract with Manchester until 2030. During the current season, Cherki has recorded five goals and two assists across nine competitive appearances in all competitions.