Algerian speed winger set to sign three years contract with Manchester City

Riyad Mahrez is allegedly close to agreeing to a new deal with Manchester City, which would be a setback for Real Madrid.

L’Equipe, a French news outlet, reported that Riyad Mahrez will stay at Manchester City after the summer transfer window closes, hence Real Madrid will need to find replacements. The Algerian forward will commit to the Premier League champions until June 30, 2025, by signing a new three-year deal with Manchester City.

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.