Manchester City must pay £75m for Mahrez

 

Pep Guardiola has revived Manchester City’s interest in Leicester star Riyad Mahrez but must pay £75m, claims The Guardian.

 

City have promised Guardiola significant funds will be available to add to his squad despite the fact they finished the season 19 points clear at the top of the league.

 

Guardiola wanted to sign Mahrez in January but pulled a plug on the deal on the final day of the transfer window after refusing to match Leicester’s demands.

 

The Algeria international has since withdrawn his transfer request but would likely jump at the chance to join City this summer, with Guardiola keen once again.

 

Leicester want a basic fee of £60m for Mahrez’s signature this summer but will demand add-ons that will push the total cost of the transfer towards £75m.

 

Manchester City must pay £75m for Mahrez

 

Claude Puel’s side were demanding just shy of £100m in January but now accept Mahrez has likely played his final game for the club.

 

Mahrez, who inspired Leicester to the Premier League title in 2016, returned close to his best form this season, playing a direct hand in 22 goals in 36 appearances for the Foxes.

 

In fact, Mahrez was one of five Premier League players that scored and assisted at least 10 goals this season.