Real Madrid are reportedly set to battle Barcelona in the summer pursuit of Leicester City superstar Riyad Mahrez.
Spanish publication Don Balon have claimed that Real Madrid have entered the race for Leicester City superstar Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian international has been linked to the likes of Liverpool and Barcelona in recent times. But it seems Los Blancos may be a new and perhaps prime contender for the winger’s services in the summer.
In fact, as per the report, Mahrez prefers Real Madrid over Barcelona, for the simple reason that he feels that he has a better chance of being a regular at Real Madrid. At Barcelona, it is impossible to dethrone any one of the MSN trio and Mahrez would have to play as the fourth man if he indeed joins the club.
However, at the Santiago Bernabeu, despite a similar situation with the BBC trio, Real Madrid are likely to lose James Rodriguez and Isco in the summer, which could open up space in the starting eleven for Riyad Mahrez.
The 26-year-old created waves with Leicester City as the Foxes charged towards an unprecedented Premier League trophy last season. However, this season hasn’t panned out well so far. Claudio Ranieri received the boot after disappointing results and Riyad Mahrez was no exception.
The Algerian international recorded just 5 goals and 3 assists this season in the league. However, the player, like his club, has shined in the UEFA Champions League, with 4 goals and 2 assists in just 7 appearances in Europe’s elite competition.
His performances have caught the attention of top clubs again, this time with more authenticity, as Mahrez has shown he can be as dangerous in Europe as well. Barcelona are in need of reinforcements to lighten the responsibility off MSN’s shoulders to be the provider of the goals.
Paco Alcacer’s inability to have an impact at Nou Camp has left a void, one which Barcelona is eager to fill. Liverpool, too, have been linked with the Algerian, with Klopp making Mahrez a priority summer target, especially with Coutinho regularly linked with a move to Barcelona.
Real Madrid, as aforementioned, are also in need of reinforcements in the summer and Mahrez’s preference could play an important role in a potential move. The player rejected the advances of top clubs last summer and is unlikely to do it again, should the big clubs come knocking.
And, judging by the report, three of them are set to renew their interest in Mahrez. It will be interesting to see which club Mahrez ends up choosing.
