Lyon's €20m chase for Rangers striker highlights widening forward gap

Olympique Lyonnais are in talks to sign 22‑year‑old Glasgow Rangers striker Youssef Chermiti, with a bid just shy of €20 million, including bonuses, on the table. It follows Lyon’s search for a new forward after several departures.

Lyon are without a talisman heading into the coming season. Endrick’s loan from Real Madrid has expired, Rachid Ghezzal’s contract has expired, and Roman Yaremchuk’s loan has not yet been made permanent, leaving a big hole to fill.

Chermiti, a Portugal U21 international, arrived at Rangers from Everton for €8 million last summer. He has since delivered 15 goals and five assists in 41 matches across all competitions.

Lyon had previously shown interest in Hearts’ Claudio Braga, but have now turned their attention to Chermiti. Foot Mercato talks have already been held between Olympique Lyonnais and Glasgow Rangers regarding a transfer.

The French club could submit a bid just shy of €20 million, including bonuses. The offer reflects Lyon’s urgency to secure a forward before the new Ligue 1 campaign begins.

For Olympique Lyonnais, signing Chermiti would provide a potential solution to their attacking deficit. For Glasgow Rangers, the deal would bring a substantial fee that could be reinvested in their squad.