Mahrez opens up over failed Arsenal move

In what was the second of two proposed moves for a Leicester player, Arsenal tried to sign the PFA ‘Player of the Year’, Riyad Mahrez but ultimately failed due to Leicester’s huge valuation of Mahrez.

The Algerian international recently spoke Canal Football Club(h/t the Guardian), confirming Arsenal’s interest in signing him in the summer, but ultimately declined the move as he did not want to damage relations with the club.

‘There was contact with Arsenal, but Leicester wanted to keep me and I was pretty expensive. I did not want to create a conflict when the offer came in. Personally, I think it is a good thing I stayed put. It’s now up to me to prove myself again.’

Arsenal were reported to have bid £35 million for Mahrez but Leicester were adamant on keeping the winger. Eventually, Mahrez signed a new four-year deal with Leicester which is said to include a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ for him to leave next summer if there is an adequate bid.