Riyad Mahrez is on the brink of bidding farewell to Manchester City and joining the lucrative Saudi Pro League. The Saudi Pro League’s lucrative offers lured the Algerian international, who will receive an astonishing £45 million per year, dwarfing his current £8.3 million salary. However, Pep Guardiola and team are reportedly eyeing Lyon’s young talent, Bradley Barcola, as his replacement.
Riyad Mahrez Departure and Its Implications for City
After conquering numerous titles with Manchester City, including the Premier League, Guardiola’s decision to let Mahrez go might appear surprising. Nevertheless, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Riyad Mahrez’s imminent departure to Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League is a done deal with a four-year agreement.
The Algerian has reportedly undergone a medical and will soon be unveiled as Al Ahli’s new man. His move to Al Ahli will see him join the likes of Roberto Firmino and Edouard Mendy, who have also made the switch to the Saudi side this summer.
Bradley Barcola: The Potential Replacement
Manchester City’s attention has turned to Lyon’s young prodigy, Bradley Barcola, as they search for a suitable replacement for Mahrez. Since January, the 20-year-old French U21 international has risen to prominence in the top-flight. City’s interest indicates his immense talent and potential.
If City secures the services of Bradley Barcola, he may initially find himself in the squad rather than the starting lineup. With his youth and promise, the Frenchman could be groomed for a more significant role in the future. However, his arrival will undoubtedly add depth and competition in the squad, which aligns with Guardiola’s philosophy of continuous improvement.
The potential transfer of Bradley Barcola to Manchester City faces stiff competition, with RB Leipzig and Paris Saint-Germain also expressing interest in the young winger. Bradley Barcola’s talents have not gone unnoticed. Liverpool had been closely tracking Barcola as well, indicating the high regard he is held in by top clubs. Last season, the 20-year-old tallied five goals and eight assists in 26 games on the right flank.
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