Manchester City are reportedly keen to keep Riyad Mahrez amid promising contract negotiations with the Algerian star, with Real Madrid among his suitors.
According to Foot Mercato, Premier League champions Manchester City are currently in advanced negotiations with Riyad Mahrez regarding a contract extension that will keep him at the Etihad for the foreseeable future. The Algerian international is a target for Real Madrid, among other high-profile suitors.
The Algerian international has proven to be an inspired signing for the Sky Blues, playing a key role in their success over the last few years. Mahrez has so far made 189 appearances for Manchester City in all competitions, scoring 63 goals and assisting 46 more. It represents an excellent return from a player who is largely an impactful option off the bench.
Pep Guardiola went into the 2021/22 campaign sans a senior striker capable of leading the line, and this meant other attackers including Mahrez had to take on a larger role of responsibility. The arrivals of Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez this summer could hint at a return to a more traditional frontline for the upcoming campaign.
The English champions are currently in the midst of a rebuild and look set to move on certain players. Raheem Sterling and Bernardo Silva could make way as Manchester City look to rebuild their ageing squad. But one man who looks set to continue playing a role at the Etihad is Mahrez.
At 31, the Algerian is not getting any younger but continues to make a difference when relied upon. His ability on the ball coupled with his directness makes him a difficult player to pin down. More so, Mahrez’s playing style of cutting in and having a go at goal has helped Manchester City come out on top more than once.
Primarily a wight-winger, Mahrez can play anywhere along the frontline. This versatility will give Guardiola more options if he needs things shaken up. Moreover, the Algerian is also a proven player in Manchester City colours and still has much to offer.
As things stand, Manchester City are keen to keep him on and are in negotiations regarding a new contract. Details regarding the financial package need to be ironed out, but there appears to be optimism that an agreement can be reached. It is in both party’s best interests to wrap the issue up as soon as possible.
The 31-year-old has been linked with a move to Real Madrid this summer. While joining the European champions could prove tempting amid uncertainties surrounding the future of Marco Asensio, Mahrez has something good going for him at Manchester City. More so, he is unlikely to be handed a starring role at Real Madrid and is better off staying put in Manchester.
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Mahrez still has much to offer and can continue to further enshrine himself into club folklore. It would appear that he has some ways to go before ending his stint as a Manchester City star, with Real Madrid unlikely to land him.
Mahrez is a utility player, so it will be a useful player.