Manchester City have reportedly rejected an £18m offer from Al-Ahli for Riyad Mahrez.
Mahrez is one of the latest big names linked with a big-money move to Saudi Arabia this summer. The recently promoted Al-Ahli, who recently signed Eduoard Mendy from Chelsea, have been linked with a move for Mahrez and have opened talks with City for the Algerian.
The Saudi club are one of four clubs – including Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad – that were taken over in June by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, and they have money to spend this summer.
According to The Sun, they have already agreed personal terms with 32-year-old Mahrez.
To seal the deal, the Saudi club have offered Pep Guardiola’s side £18m for want-away winger Mahrez. However, the Cityzens have rejected that offer and are holding out for more.
Manchester City signed Riyad Mahrez from Leicester five years ago today—it’s worked out well:
▪️ Champions League
▪️ Premier League (4)
▪️ FA Cup (2)
▪️ League Cup (3)
▪️ Community Shield (2)
▪️ 78 goals
▪️ 59 assists💥🇩🇿 pic.twitter.com/yODezmp6KN
— B/R Football (@brfootball) July 10, 2023
The Premier League champions expect the SPL club to return with an improved offer, given that Mahrez is keen on the move.
The Algerian has spent five years at the Etihad Stadium. But having seen his involvement in the team reduce last season, he feels his time at the club is over.
Mahrez has made 236 appearances for City, scoring 78 goals. But he now views Saudi Arabia as a new opportunity, with £43m-a-year plus bonuses, offer waiting for him in the Middle East.
