Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing the Leicester City man.
A report surfaced this week claiming that Spurs have asked Leicester to be kept informed regarding any developments regarding Riyad Mahrez’ future, with the Evening Standard suggesting that Mauricio Pocehttino wants to bring the Algerian to north London this summer.
The newspaper outlined how Tottenham will not pay anywhere near the £50 million that the Foxes are demanding or the 26-year-old, however, so it is unlikely that he will join the Lilywhites unless the east Midlanders dramatically drop their valuation of their star man.
There is another way that Spurs could afford a move for Mahrez though – by offering Moussa Sissoko as part of the deal.
Leicester’s Riyad Mahrez
The Frenchman has badly flopped during his time in north London, but he is still undoubtedly a talent, who could flourish, if offered regular first-team football under a manager who shows him love.
Following N’Golo Kante’s exit from the King Power Stadium last summer, Leicester have lacked a certain kind of energy and drive in midfield, and the 27-year-old Spurs ace could be just the man to bring back some dynamism to Craig Shakespeare’s side.
He can also play in the wide right attacking role, which would mean that the Foxes would have a ready-made replacement for Mahrez.
The Leicester winger is exactly the kind of signing that Tottenham need to make. Someone who can produce that little bit of magic, and change a game in an instant. A player who would ease the creative burden on Christian Erisken’s shoulders.
And whilst it is understandable that Spurs are reluctant to pay £50 million for Mahrez’ services, the idea of paying just £30-35 million plus Sissoko would seem like a far more interesting option for Pochettino, Daniel Levy and co.
It remains to be seen whether Leicester would be quite so keen on the deal, however.
Tottenham’s Moussa Sissoko in action
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
