Barça goes after the new Neymar: Lamine Yamal wants him

As the summer transfer window officially opens, FC Barcelona is getting ready to reshape its squad. After carefully studying how the team performed last season, new manager Hansi Flick has made one thing very clear—the attack needs more strength, especially on the wings.

During the last campaign, Barcelona heavily depended on just two wide players: Raphinha and young star Lamine Yamal. These two were given almost all the minutes, and while they performed well, it’s obvious that more depth is needed. The team cannot rely on only two wingers across a long, demanding season with multiple competitions.

With Ansu Fati no longer in the club’s plans and Ferran Torres the only real substitute option, Flick has asked for reinforcements. He wants a young, skillful winger who can play as a backup, but still make a real impact when called upon.

That’s when Deco, the club’s sporting director, put a name on the table—Rayan Cherki, a rising star from Olympique Lyon in France. And the club is now seriously considering making a move.

The Type of Player Barça Is Looking For

Barcelona has always been known for a very specific style of football—creative, attacking, and full of flair. The club has a long history of producing or signing players who are exciting to watch, especially on the wings. Think Ronaldinho, Neymar, or even Ousmane Dembélé—players who could take on defenders, dribble with ease, and create chances out of nothing.

That’s why when looking for a new winger, Barça isn’t just looking for any player—they want someone special. Someone who fits the DNA of the club.

The goal isn’t just to sign a name, but to find the right profile. A winger who is young, skillful, and smart. Someone who can dribble past defenders, create chances, and eventually grow into a starting role. And among the many names being watched by scouts, one player has recently impressed everyone at the club.

Cherki: A Rare Talent at a Bargain Price

Rayan Cherki, only 21 years old, has informed his current club Lyon that he wants a new challenge. His performances in Ligue 1 last season caught everyone’s eye. He was officially rated the best dribbler in the French league, beating well-known players like Ousmane Dembélé and Jérémy Doku.

Despite his talent, Cherki’s price tag is surprisingly low—just €22 million. In today’s market, where average players go for €30 or €40 million, this is seen as a real bargain.

Cherki is ambidextrous, meaning he’s comfortable using both feet. He can play on the left wing, right wing, or even as an attacking midfielder behind the striker. His versatility is one of his biggest strengths, and for a team like Barcelona, which values tactical flexibility, this is a big bonus.

Even more encouraging, Cherki is open to playing a backup role. He understands that Raphinha and Lamine Yamal are ahead of him in the current setup, but he also knows that Barça is the kind of club where a player can grow quickly and make a name for themselves.

A Style That Reminds Fans of Neymar

Many who’ve watched Cherki play compare him to Neymar during his early Barcelona days. He plays with that same spark—fast feet, clever passes, tricky dribbles, and a fearless attitude. Cherki has the kind of creativity that can get fans off their seats, and at Barça, that’s exactly what supporters love to see.

Deco has followed Cherki’s progress for years, keeping an eye on his development at Lyon. He knows that there aren’t many players in Europe right now with this combination of talent, potential, and affordability. This is why he has presented the idea to Hansi Flick, who has reportedly given his approval.

Flick believes Cherki would offer much-needed rotation for the wingers, allowing him to rest key players without a significant drop in quality. It’s a low-risk, high-reward signing that makes a lot of sense.

More Than a Backup—A Future Star

While Cherki may start off as a substitute, he has the potential to become a starter in the near future. At just 21, his best years are still ahead of him. If he fits well into Barcelona’s system and adapts quickly, there’s no reason why he can’t become one of the club’s most important players.

The Neymar comparisons aren’t just based on dribbling or style—they also reflect the kind of confidence and creativity Cherki plays with. Like Neymar, he’s not afraid to try the unexpected. He brings something fresh to the game, and that’s exactly what Barça’s attack needs right now.

If he signs and continues to grow, he could be a real gem—the kind of player who turns matches with a single moment of brilliance.

A Smart Move for the Club

From a financial point of view, signing Cherki for €22 million is a smart investment. In a market where prices are rising every year, it’s rare to find such a skilled player available for such a reasonable fee.

For Barcelona, this could be one of the best-value signings of the summer—a young, exciting talent who can contribute immediately and grow into a star.

Cherki has already said goodbye to Lyon. He wants to take the next step in his career, and he’s looking for a big club that can help him reach the top. Barcelona, with its history, style, and fan base, seems like the perfect place.

Conclusion: A New Neymar for the New Era?

As the summer transfer window unfolds, all eyes are on FC Barcelona and the decisions they will make. Rayan Cherki might not be the biggest name on the market, but he could be one of the smartest signings.

With his mix of skill, flair, and hunger, he offers exactly what Barça needs—a player who brings joy to the pitch and keeps defenders on their toes.

If the deal goes through, Cherki won’t just be a backup—he could become a main character in Barcelona’s next chapter.

Let’s wait and see if the club makes their move.