Algeria's Riyad Mahrez’ transfer to Manchester City set to drag on

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Monday Jul 02, 2018. 11:44

Media reports in England suggest that Algeria and Leicester City winger Riyad Mahrez's move to Manchester City could drag on.

With the deal said to be edging closer, the two clubs are yet to agree on a fee for the winger according to Leicester Mercury.

Although progress has been made in Mahrez’s potential move, the two clubs still seem to be playing a game of who will blink first as City hold out for their valuation figure.

Moreover, the Premier League champions are standing firm on their offer, insisting they could walk away again, as they did in January, and leave City and Mahrez to pick up the pieces.

With the deal set to drag on, manager Claude Puel would want to get off to a good start to the 2018/19 season to ease the pressure mounting from sections of the supporters and the effect the saga has had on his squad.

The website reports that the Foxes’ squad will return for the first day of pre-season on Monday including the players who have been on 2018 FIFA World Cup duty.

However, those who played international friendlies in early June have all been given additional time off, including Mahrez.

On the other hand, it is mentioned that the longer the deal drags, the more unlikely City may want to do the deal, as it will give them little time to bring in a replacement and Mahrez is set to remain frustrated.