Manchester City Prepare for Riyad Mahrez’s Departure and Look to Secure a New Winger
Manchester City are making moves to sign a new winger as Riyad Mahrez gets closer to completing a £30 million move to Al Ahly. According to reports from The Athletic, the Saudi Pro League club has offered Mahrez a deal worth approximately £25 million per year in wages, and it is believed that the 32-year-old has accepted these terms. City are now ready to accept the bid, and there are even reports that a medical has been scheduled for this week.
The club has been aware of the possibility of losing Mahrez this summer and has been preparing for his departure by identifying potential replacements. Losing Mahrez would leave a void in City’s attacking lineup, and they are keen to fill it with a quality winger.
At the same time, City is also working hard to keep Bernardo Silva, who has also received interest from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal. While City would ideally like to retain both Mahrez and Bernardo, they understand that the Algerian winger is open to a move away. However, the club is determined not to lose both players and is focused on keeping Bernardo.
City has used Declan Rice’s recent move to Arsenal as a benchmark for Bernardo’s valuation. Rice joined Arsenal for a fee of £100 million plus £5 million in add-ons, and City sees Bernardo as a player of similar importance. The club has made it clear to Bernardo that he is an integral part of their plans for next season and wants to ensure his continued presence in the squad.
With Ilkay Gundogan departing for Barcelona and Rice choosing Arsenal over City, Bernardo is seen as the ideal candidate to fill the midfield void without having to enter the transfer market. Losing Mahrez, however, highlights the need for City to bring in a new winger to maintain their attacking strength.
City’s pursuit of a new winger is a testament to their ambition and desire to remain competitive at the highest level. Pep Guardiola’s side has enjoyed tremendous success in recent years, winning multiple domestic titles and reaching the final of the UEFA Champions League. They understand the importance of squad depth and are actively working to strengthen their options.
The search for a new winger will likely involve extensive scouting and analysis to identify the right player who can seamlessly integrate into Guardiola’s system. City’s style of play relies heavily on wingers who can provide width, pace, and creativity in the final third. Finding a player who possesses these qualities while also fitting into the team’s tactical framework will be crucial.
Additionally, City will need to consider factors such as the player’s age, experience, and potential resale value. The club has a history of making shrewd signings and developing young talents into world-class players. They will undoubtedly be looking for a winger who not only strengthens the team in the short term but also has the potential to contribute significantly in the long run.
As City prepares for Mahrez’s departure and looks to secure a new winger, fans will be eagerly anticipating the club’s next move. The transfer window is always an exciting time for football enthusiasts, and City’s activity in the market will undoubtedly generate interest and speculation.
In conclusion, Manchester City is stepping up their efforts to sign a new winger as Riyad Mahrez nears a move to Al Ahly. The club is aware of the need to replace Mahrez’s attacking prowess and is actively working to secure a suitable replacement. At the same time, City is determined to retain Bernardo Silva and has made it clear to him that he is an essential part of their plans for next season. As the transfer window progresses, fans will be eagerly watching City’s moves in the market and hoping for exciting new additions to the squad.