Real Madrid have reportedly made contact with the representatives of Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez over the possibility of a summer transfer.
According to a report from French outlet Foot Mercato, as relayed by the Manchester Evening News, La Liga champions Real Madrid have shown an interest in Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez and have already established contact with the player’s representatives over a potential transfer.
The 29-year-old Algerian spent the early years of his career in France, before moving to England in January 2014, when he signed for Leicester City. Mahrez went on to essay a pivotal role in the Foxes’ shock Premier League title triumph in 2015/16, following which a number of big clubs tried to sign him up.
However, the Algerian international stayed put at the King Power Stadium for a couple more years before eventually getting his big money move in 2018, when he joined Manchester City. And, the winger has proven to be a great signing for Pep Guardiola’s side.
Mahrez scored and assisted 12 goals apiece in his first season at the Etihad and went on to better that tally in the season gone by. He ended the 2019/20 term with a return of 13 goals and 16 assists from 50 appearances across all competitions, even though City failed to defend their Premier League title.
Mahrez’s performances haven’t gone unnoticed, with La Liga champions Real Madrid now taking a keen interest in the 29-year-old. Having clinched their first league title in three years, Los Blancos have had a quiet summer window so far, with no major incomings.
However, their attack might be in need of bolstering heading into the new season. Gareth Bale seems to be on his way out finally, while Lucas Vazquez’s contract expires in less than a year, casting a doubt on his future. This would open up a spot on the right flank in Zinedine Zidane’s side, and Mahrez could be the ideal option to fill it.
To that end, Real Madrid are believed to have already held talks with the Algerian international’s representatives over the possibility of a summer switch. However, a deal could be hard to strike as Mahrez still has three years left on his current contract with Manchester City, who have already lost a wide player this summer and are likely to be reluctant to lose another one.
Furthermore, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has seemingly ruled out big money transfers this summer, owing to the finances being impacted by the pandemic. So, it remains to be seen if Madrid’s interest in Mahrez leads to anything substantial.
