Riyad Mahrez is reportedly closing in on signing a new contract with Manchester City, handing Real Madrid a blow in his pursuit.
According to a report by French publication L’Equipe, Real Madrid will have to identify alternatives to Riyad Mahrez, who will remain at Manchester City beyond the summer transfer window. The Algerian forward will sign a new three-year contract with Manchester City, committing himself to the Premier League champions until June 30, 2025.
Riyad Mahrez was already one of the best forwards in the Premier League before he joined Manchester City in July 2018. The 31-year-old was instrumental in Leicester City’s shock title triumph six years ago, winning the Premier League Player of the Year award. And he has gone from strength to strength since arriving at the Etihad.
Mahrez was Manchester City’s top scorer last season, amassing 24 goals and nine assists in 47 outings across all competitions. But the Algerian international had been facing an uncertain future at the Etihad, as he had entered the final year of his contract this month. Such a situation had captured the attention of several European bigwigs, including Real Madrid.
The links with Real Madrid made sense, considering Gareth Bale departed from the Santiago Bernabeu as a free agent without having a replacement in place. In addition, Marco Asensio faces an uncertain future at Real Madrid, with the Spanish international entering the final year of his contract.
Real Madrid will thus have to consider signing a new wide-attacker in the summer transfer window, especially if Asensio leaves. So even though Vinicius Jr. has been going from strength to strength, and Rodrygo is growing in stature at the Santiago Bernabeu, another top-class winger could be a solid addition to the squad.
Mahrez had thus emerged as a viable target for Real Madrid, who thought about launching the offensive for him this summer. But the 31-year-old has been keen on extending his stay at Manchester City, and the two parties could soon officiate an extension, with the player ready to sign a new three-year contract.
Mahrez had been in advanced talks with Manchester City to finalise the new contract, and according to L’Equipe, the reigning Premier League champions will soon make an official announcement. As for Real Madrid, it will be interesting to see if they will identify alternatives for Mahrez, especially if Asensio leaves this summer.