Manchester United could reportedly look to sign a player with 'massive attitude problems' if Erik ten Hag gets his wish in the January transfer window. The Red Devils are widely expected to strengthen at the turn of the year as they look to recover from their lacklustre start to the Premier League campaign.

French football expert Jonathan Johnson has warned that Cherki's character would have the potential to cause issues in United's dressing room, telling TEAMtalk: "One problem is that clubs are becoming increasingly aware that he has massive attitude problems. He doesn't always conduct himself like he should on the pitch or in training.

"There is quite a problematic relationship between the player's entourage and the club [Lyon], so that could get in the way of his development. Cherki is considered one of the most talented players to ever come through Lyon's academy, so there's no doubt he could become a top, top player one day.

"But you just have to look at reports of how things have gone in the first few weeks under [Lyon manager Fabio] Grosso. It points to him being a difficult character and I think that's made a few European clubs think twice about trying to make a move for him."

Lyon have been plagued by a number of issues this season, with the French giants rooted to the bottom of Ligue 1 after failing to win any of their first 10 matches. Johnson believes the situation could see Cherki sold in the near future, although his potential suitors will need to weigh up his obvious ability and high potential against his supposedly problematic nature.

"They'll have to decide if it's worth the risk, because some clubs have looked closely at Cherki before deciding to think twice," added Johnson.

"These issues have been there for a while, not just with Grosso. There's definitely room for him to improve the way he responds to what coaches are asking of him, and to deal better with constructive criticism.

"He has immense potential, but at the moment it looks like unless he changes, it's going to be difficult for him to really tap into that potential and have the career he's truly capable of."