RB Leipzig viewing Olympique Lyon midfielder Rayan Cherki as Dani Olmo replacement

Olmo's expected imminent departure has created a need for Leipzig to find a new playmaker and it appears Cherki has been identified as their top target.

Leipzig are prepared to meet Lyon's asking price of €15 million, with an additional €2 million in future add-ons. Although personal terms between Cherki and Leipzig have not yet been finalized, negotiations are ongoing.

Lyon sporting director David Friio has confirmed the Ligue 1 outfit are willing to part ways with Cherki in an interview with Le Progres.

"We spoke to him at the beginning of the summer, and we are trying to find a solution,❠said Friio. "He will definitely leave. I don't know what would be the better destination, abroad or PSG.

"I think it should be a win-win situation anyway. He is a son of the club, who has given us a lot. But there are moments in a player's career when he has to look elsewhere. The club that will sign him will reap all the benefits."

Earlier in the transfer window, Borussia Dortmund attempted to sign Cherki but were unable to reach an agreement with Lyon, paving the way for Leipzig to pursue the 20-year-old French midfielder.

In case the deal for Cherki does not materialize, Leipzig are also monitoring Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven and Francisco Conceicao from Porto as alternative options. 

READ MORE: Crystal Palace are keen to sign Maxence Lacroix as Marc Guehi eyes Newcastle