Riyad Mahrez blames Leicester City for failed move to Arsenal
Riyad Mahrez has spoken up about his failed move to Arsenal back in 2016, blaming Leicester City for blocking the transfer.
The Algerian was one of a number of Leicester City stars to be on the radar of the Premier League’s big boys, but it was only N’Golo Kante who managed to find the exit route, going on to win the Premier League that year with Chelsea.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, the 26-year old has revealed that Leicester City told him he could move, only to themselves deny him the opportunity later on. He said:
"“They said: ‘Yes, there will be no problems if something comes up’.“But behind the scenes they were blocking me – talking to clubs but just not wanting to sell me”."
The winger further spoke about Kante’s transfer to Chelsea.
"“N’Golo had a clause and when he left they stopped those clauses. They said they would never give one to anyone after that.“But I’m confident. Contract or no contract, I believe I will get to the top. When you have quality, and show it, there’s no problem.”"
Riyad Mahrez’s confidence is too much for a guy who has had two consecutive summers of failed transfers. Having released a statement about his desire to leave back in the summer, the 2016 PFA player of the year virtually issued a come-and-get-me plea, which brought more disappointment for him.
Arsenal reportedly led the race for his signature, followed by Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Chelsea, Everton and Barcelona. However, it was AS Roma who made a formal approach for him, submitting as many as four bids, all of which were duly rejected.
More from Leicester City News
- Enzo Maresca hails four star Leicester players
- Harry Winks reveals his easy decision to join Leicester
- Leicester injury return dates: Coady, Praet, Cannon
- Midfielder’s Leicester contract, Souttar’s vow, international roundup
- Leicester stars among most valuable in Championship as legend’s rating drops
The Serie A club are said to have made their latest offer in the region of £38 million, though Leicester City wanted £50 million, a price that was always going to be too high for the Serie A giants.
Riyad Mahrez is still interested in a move to a bigger club, but it’s highly questionable if any of the European elite would offer him a place in the starting XI.