After five trophy-laden years at the Etihad Stadium, Riyad Mahrez could be on his way out of Manchester City with the winger closing in on a move to Saudi Arabia.
The Athletic claims that Al-Ahli have tabled a £30 million bid to sign the Algerian forward – a proposal considered acceptable by the reigning Premier League and European champions.
The 32-year-old has also given his green light to the Saudi-based club and will earn roughly £25m per year. His medical has reportedly been scheduled for this week.
Mahrez has been a key player for Man City since joining from Leicester City in 2018, and his importance to the Cityzens was on display last season.
The former Leicester man spurred Pep Guardiola’s side to a historic treble, bagging 15 goals and 13 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions.
Man City were willing to keep Mahrez in Manchester, but the player was reportedly keen on the transfer, and the club have decided not to stand in his way.
With Mahrez on the verge of securing a move away, Man City have begun plans to sign a winger to replace the Algeria international forward.
Although no names have been reported yet, it is understood that the Cityzens are interested in Atletico Madrid winger Rodrigo Riquelme and have even seen an opening bid rejected by the Spanish giants.
Mahrez’s imminent departure could see Man City lose two high-profile forwards this summer, with Bernardo Silva’s long-term future at the Etihad still far from certain.
Silva wants to explore opportunities abroad and is subject to concrete interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Al-Hilal.
However, Man City are determined not to lose both Mahrez and Silva this summer, which could scupper the latter’s plans of securing an exit.
Silva is seen as the man to replace Mahrez after proving his credentials last season. Man City may consider selling the Portuguese forward if an offer of around €80m arrives.
