Riyad Mahrez, the architect of Leicester City’s fairytale Premier League triumph, is once again linked with a move to Barcelona during the summer. The Algerian international emerged as a Premier League superstar following his majestic 2015-16 campaign that earned him the PFA Player of the Year award. Amidst the interests from top European outfits, the champions of England managed to tie him down back in August with a new £100,000 a week contract with no release clause in it.
But Leicester indeed failed miserably in their title defence as they struggled from the beginning of this Premier League season and are currently fighting out to save relegation. The sacking of their Premier League winning manager Claudio Ranieri has worked out as they have lifted up their performance under new boss Craig Shakespeare.
The Foxes have entered the quarterfinals of UEFA Champions League competition beating Sevilla and three back to back league wins have put them above the drop zone. Mahrez, alongside other colleagues, failed to repeat the excellence of the previous campaign but showed signs of improvement since ‘Tinkerman’s’ departure.
However, Leicester do not have a chance to play in Europe next season unless they win Champions League which is highly unlikely. Thus, a number of first team regulars are expected to move elsewhere this summer and Riyad Mahrez will be a major transfer target of several top flight teams.
If reports are believed to be true, Barcelona have reignited their interest in the Algerian winger and are plotting a bid for him. Leicester City have not included any release clause in Mahrez’s contract and they are expecting a bid of over £40 million from his suitors.
The 26-year old attacker is regarded for his all around quality as he possesses all the traits to be a world class winger. He loves to cut inside, has tremendous dribbling skills, good vision and imposing ball skills. He has a great passing range which may suit Barcelona’s style of play. Also, Mahrez has the ability to score from long rangers and create chances with impressive through balls. The Algerian is a threat in counter attacking movements as he is highly acclaimed for his link-up play.
But will it be a good deal for the Catalans?
Mahrez has quality but Barca already have the best-attacking trio of world football in Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr. and Luis Suarez. The likes of Paco Alcácer and Arda Turan struggle to get game-time and Riyad Mahrez might be surplus to their requirements.
Barcelona will witness a change in management as their boss Luis Enrique has decided to step down at the end of the campaign. It is now to be seen how the next manager shuffles the Algerian if the deal finally takes place in coming days.
