Could Man City star Mahrez follow Benzema & Kante to Saudi Pro League?

James Shearman

Updated: 9 Jun 2023 06:37 BST
4 min read

Riyad Mahrez, Man City, 2022/23 — © ProShots

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez is wanted by Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Article continues under the video

He would be the league's third high-profile signing of the summer, after Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante.

While City teammate Ilkay Gundogan and Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha have also been linked.

Mahrez is still at the top of his game, with five goals and 10 assists in just 22 Premier League starts in the 2022-23 season.

But the Algerian will be disappointed with the lack of gametime and might not be in manager Pep Guardiola's long-term plans.

Saudi Pro League movement

Cristiano Ronaldo moved to the league in January and earns a staggering €200 million per season at Al-Nassr.

While his great rival Lionel Messi was expected to join him before deciding to sign for Inter Miami. Messi reportedly had an offer on the table from Al-Hilal of an astronomical €400m per year.

Karim Benzema signed a three-year contract with Al-Ittihad on a salary worth an incredible €200m a year. He will make €600m during his time at the club.

Saudi side Al-Ahli interest in Riyad Mahrez, confirmed and concrete as they want to sign Algerian star - but Manchester City have not been approached yet at this stage. 🔵 #MCFC

Man City would require a consistent fee for Mahrez, no chance to let him leave for free. pic.twitter.com/TAFb4viGih

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 8, 2023

A fourth star on his way to Saudi Arabia is Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante. The Frenchman is reported to have agreed a two-year contract with Al-Ittihad worth €100m a year.

Europe’s biggest-ever salary is €75m a year, which Messi earned at Barcelona. This demonstrates just how much money is on offer for players in Saudi Arabia.

Expect many more superstars to transfer to the league in the coming months and years.