Sources: Man City now working on signing Riyad Mahrez replacement after £80m+ deal agreed
The Man City recruitment team are now working on replacements for Riyad Mahrez as he closes in on a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, sources have told Football Insider.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that City boss Pep Guardiola will be given the funds needed to replace the 32-year-old this summer.
It is believed Man City were desperate to keep Mahrez at the Etihad Stadium – meaning his exit will now come as a massive blow to Guardiola and his treble-winning squad.
Football Insider revealed on Sunday (16 July) that the winger is flying to Dubai to undergo a medical with Al-Alhi after agreeing personal terms.
Mahrez is expected to sign a two-year deal with the club, with an option to extend his stay for an additional 12 months – and is set to land £43million per season plus bonuses.
The Algeria international has helped Pep Guardiola’s side to win four Premier League titles, three League Cups, two FA Cups and the Champions League.
He notched 15 goals and 13 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions in a famous 2022-23 campaign for Man City.
Mahrez’s contract was set to expire in June 2025.
Cole Palmer has also been linked with an Etihad Stadium exit this summer, with multiple sides reportedly interested in taking him on loan.
Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Bernardo Silva are among the other stars capable of playing in a wide role.
However, Football Insider revealed earlier this month (5 July) that Man City superstar Kevin de Bruyne is set to miss the start of the 2023-24 campaign through injury.
In other news, Paris Saint-Germain star wants to join Man City after deal agreed.