Transfer Talk: January target Cherki can add guile for the Irons

West Ham are in the market for more attacking firepower and Rayan Cherki could fit the bill.

The Lyon youngster has impressed in Ligue 1 over recent seasons having emerged as a precocious teenager in 2020.

Despite Lyon's struggles at the bottom of the French top flight, Cherki has continued to catch the eye.

Ahead of West Ham's clash with Wolves, we look at what the attacking midfielder could bring to the London Stadium.

Extra quality

David Moyes' desire for more dynamism in attack is no secret.

West Ham's goal return of 26 in the Premier League this season is not terrible — but they also rank 13th in the division for xG (24.07).

The good news for the Hammers is that Jarrod Bowen continues to be a reliable goalscorer, with nine to his name in the league so far this term.

But West Ham were particularly toothless in last weekend's 5-0 drubbing at Fulham.

While resolving defensive issues might be the obvious priority after that result, there is a clear need for a spark at the other end of the pitch.

Cherki, who ranks fifth in Ligue 1 for completed take-ons (35) and first for attempted through balls (11), could be the answer.

With Lyon unexpectedly 16th in the table, Cherki's development has slowed and he has impacted games less frequently — but his talent is still unquestionable.

More to come

Cherki's relationship with recently dismissed Lyon boss Fabio Grosso did not appear to be positive.

The Italian often used him as a substitute and pinpointed his weaknesses as a player.

In October, Grosso said: "Is he [Cherki] a special player? He's a player. He's not a special player.

"He's a player like any other, albeit with some additional qualities.

"But it's not just technical qualities that matter. There are mental and athletic qualities as well. He possesses enormous technical abilities, but he needs to work on the others.

"His destiny is in his hands. He has been blessed with incredible qualities, but he can improve.

"As we've said before, he is one of those players who needs to progress to fully realise his immense potential."

Ray of light

With question marks over Cherki's consistency and application, signing him might be considered something of a gamble.

But with Chelsea also rumoured to be interested, there is no doubting his reputation as one of Europe's brightest prospects.

In the right environment and tactical setup, Cherki could thrive.

The challenge for West Ham and Moyes, should they agree a deal with Lyon, will be to get the best out of the attacking midfielder.

Adding a player of Cherki's quality can only help the Hammers — but they must first look to bounce back from their worst result of the season against Wolves.