Riyad Mahrez’s Manchester City move close to completion

Leicester City winger Riyad Mahrez’s move to Manchester City is nearing its completion, according to Sky Sports.

Although a deal is yet to be agreed, the fee is believed to be in the region of £60 million – about £20 millon short of the Foxes’ valuation back in January.

Shall things keep progressing as they are, the 26-year old will have his medical later this week to finally bring the curtains down on his time at Leicester City.

While it’s going to be disappointing for the fans to see their best player leave, there would be relief all around, too. The Algerian’s transfer saga has, put crudely, been a constant disturbance for the club.

Right from the start of the last season, there have been reports linking Riyad Mahrez to a new club every single day. The speculation started with Arsenal, and since then, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, Manchester United, Everton, AS Roma, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have all been reported as possible destinations.

From that long list of clubs, Roma are the only ones to have formally approached Leicester City. The Serie A giants submitted four bids – all of which were rejected – with the highest being close to £40 million.

Leicester’s stubborness back then has got them £20 million more a year later, even if it meant a season more of frustration for Mahrez himself. The East Midlanders can now direct their efforts at bringing in a replacement.

Next: Galatasaray make another offer for Leicester City’s Ahmed Musa

With a serious sum available, it would be very interesting to see who Claude Puel signs to fill the void left by his star player.