Lyon are reportedly considering making a formal bid for Rangers striker Youssef Chermiti, despite the Scottish club making clear their reluctance to sell.
The 22-year-old Portuguese forward had a mixed debut season at Ibrox after joining from Everton in a deal worth £8 million.
Chermiti struggled initially to justify his price tag but grew into the campaign as the season progressed, delivering increasingly impressive performances.
His best moments included a hat-trick against Hearts in February and a notable brace against Celtic, finishing the season with 15 goals to his name.
That strong second-half form reportedly convinced Rangers to reject a £13 million approach from Fenerbahce during the January transfer window.
Interest in the striker has not faded since, with Galatasaray, PSV Eindhoven, Porto, and Lyon all linked with moves for him this summer.
French outfit Lyon are said to be weighing up an opening bid after losing striker Endrick, who returned to Real Madrid following a loan spell at the club.
According to Foot Mercato, Lyon are “considering” a package worth €14 million plus €4 million in bonuses “to try and convince Rangers” to part with their striker.
Lyon’s head of recruitment Benjamin Charrier has reportedly made contact with Rangers as the club looks to make “concrete progress” on a potential transfer.
Rangers, however, are said to be unwilling to sanction a sale, with Charrier warned that a “revised” offer would need to be tabled before any departure could be considered.
The situation places Rangers in a strong negotiating position, having already demonstrated their willingness to hold firm against significant financial offers earlier this year.
With the summer window in full swing, it remains to be seen whether Lyon will return with an improved proposal capable of changing the club’s stance on their key frontman.
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