Real Madrid planned to scout 32-year-old Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Riyad Mahrez is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. Los Blancos planned to run the rule over the 32-year-old Manchester City winger in the UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan on Saturday. And a summer move could be on the cards.
Riyad Mahrez has established himself as one of the best attackers in the Premier League since arriving from Le Havre in January 2014. And after four and a half years with Leicester City, which included an improbable Premier League triumph in 2015/16, he joined Manchester City in July 2018.
The 32-year-old has blown hot and cold at the Etihad but has always amassed big numbers during his spell. And the Algerian international contributed to 28 goals this season, finding the back of the net 15 times while providing 13 assists. But Mahrez’s Manchester City future is uncertain in the wake of not featuring in the UEFA Champions League final.
Saudi Arabian clubs have shown interest in the experienced winger, who also has suitors in Europe. Those include Real Madrid, who planned to run the rule over him during the UEFA Champions League final. But with the player not playing, Los Blancos could not scout him against Inter Milan.
But Real Madrid had a few other Manchester City players on the agenda, including Julian Alvarez. Erling Haaland is also a target for the Spanish club. But Mahrez’s name on the wishlist is surprising, considering Real Madrid’s outlook in the market.
The Merengues tend to scour the market for players yet to reach their peak years. Meanwhile, Mahrez is closer to the twilight of his career than the peaking phase. That said, after losing an attacker of Marco Asensio’s quality, Real Madrid can do with someone who will chip in with goals and assists regularly.
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But it will be interesting to see if Real Madrid will launch the offensive to secure Mahrez’s services. Amid interest from Saudi Arabia, the Manchester City attacker might have a lucrative contract on his table. So a summer deal is uncertain.
