Newcastle United linked with David Ginola, Laurent Robert, Hatem Ben Arfa and Allan Saint-Maximin regen

Newcastle United are considering a summer swoop for Lyon sensation Rayan Cherki, according to reports.

Barcelona, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have all been linked with the 20-year-old who, despite his age, has already made 140 appearances for the Ligue 1 giants. Cherki - regarded as one of the club’s best-ever prospects - broke through the ranks aged 16.

He has also represented France at under-16, under-19, under-21 and under-23 but is yet to make a senior appearance. An inconsistent season resulted in Cherki being in and out of Lyon’s team throughout the campaign.

Despite this, he still chipped in with 11 goal contributions across all competitions, helping Les Gones secure European qualification and a cup-final spot. As for Newcastle, they have made signing prospects a top priority since the Saudi-backed takeover. 

The likes of Alex Murphy, Yankuba Minteh and Garang Kuol have arrived to bolster a previously-neglected area on Tyneside. Newcastle also boast a rich history of French mavericks, including David Ginola, Laurent Robert, Hatem Ben Arfa and Allan Saint-Maximin - with HITC claiming Cherki could be next.

The thought of signing another exciting wideman from across the English channel would thrill supporters. Cherki, capable of playing anywhere behind the striker, admitted earlier this season he will consider his options at the end of the season.

“Of course it motivates me (wanting to get back in the team),” he said. “I want to play every minute. I accept the coach’s choices, I know that this period is not an end in itself. I have a lot of things to bring to the team.

“I don’t think about what’s next at all. My future will wait until the end of the season. Lyon comes first. When the time comes to ask the question, we will ask it, but it is not yet the time.”