Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli in the summer window.
According to Foot Mercato, Al-Ahli will offer €20m for the winger and the Citizens ‘think’ of letting him leave.
In the event of the Algerian’s sale, it’s claimed Manchester City have Barcelona’s Raphinha, who left Leeds United just last summer, ‘in mind’ to replace him. He’s said to be the ‘priority’ target for Pep Guardiola and his side.
The 26-year-old knows the Premier League well from his time at Leeds United and his profile appeals to Pep Guardiola.
Foot Mercato say Manchester City sporting director Txiki Begiristain and Barca director Deco have had initial contact over a potential deal for the Brazil international.
The website adds this isn’t ‘bad news’ for the Catalan club because selling Raphinha would improve their finances, and they need [€60m before August 31st] to register new signings.
Despite working hard to get him from Leeds United, a quick sale has been rumoured repeatedly in recent months.
Earlier in this window, the South American was linked to other clubs but insisted he wants to continue at the Camp Nou. Foot Mercato claim Raphinha will ‘certainly’ consider this time, if Manchester City were to take firm steps to secure his services.
🚨EXCL : 🔵🔴🇧🇷 #Liga |
◉ Raphinha is a top target for Manchester City if Riyad Mahrez leaves the club. The interest is concrete.
◉ Txiki Begiristain and Deco have already been in contact this week.
◉ Barça will listen any offer.https://t.co/6zaB8lKIpi pic.twitter.com/JdEFGq4qS0
— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) July 19, 2023
Journalist Santi Aouna covered this report and took to Twitter to add Manchester City’s ‘interest is concrete’ in Raphinha.