Manchester United Transfer News: Riyad Mahrez Talks Opened Amid PSG Rumours

Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly opened talks with the representatives of Leicester City star Riyad Mahrez over a possible transfer.

That’s according to France Football (h/t Sport Witness) who suggest Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal has isolated the Algerian international as an ideal option to add some attacking thrust to his team. French champions PSG are also in the hunt for Mahrez’s signature and are “very attentive” about the player, the piece claims.

It’s no surprise sides of this calibre are apparently keeping an eye on the Leicester man. As we can see here, courtesy of OptaJoe, Mahrez has been a decisive presence for the Foxes this season:

Indeed, under Claudio Ranieri, Mahrez has developed from a capricious wide player to a refined, influential attacking force. The Italian has utilised his player perfectly, stationing him on both flanks, occasionally off the striker and even withdrawing him from the starting XI on occasions. The 24-year-old has flourished as a result.

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For Manchester United, he’d certainly be an intriguing capture, especially with Van Gaal’s side seeking an attacking spark.

At times this season, the Red Devils have dazzled through the attacking endeavours of players such as Anthony Martial, Memphis Depay, Juan Mata and Ander Herrera. But they haven’t done so consistently, especially in the last three matches, which all finished in 0-0 draws. Oliver Kay of the Times clearly hasn’t enjoyed their attacking play:

Mahrez would definitely light up Old Trafford. Not only does he contribute goals and assists, but the Leicester man plays the game with a real panache, happy to commit defenders, try tricks and conjure unorthodox pieces of play. He’d certainly bring a refreshing edge back to the sharp end of the United attack.

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There’s currently a lack of orthodox wide players in this United squad, too. At the moment, Martial and Mata, neither of whom are natural wingers, are occupying spots on the flanks for the Red Devils. As Pilib de Brun of Sirius XM notes, Van Gaal’s handling of attacking players has left a lot to be desired during his tenure:

Mahrez, potentially picking the ball up on the right and making penetrative surges forward, would be a brilliant addition for the Red Devils. He’d enliven a team that’s become far too mechanical in their offensive play, bring crucial depth to attacking positions. And he has already proven he’s more than capable of thriving in the Premier League.

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Leicester will be staunch in their resolve to stave off any potential move for their star man, though. The Foxes are having a stormer of a campaign, and with Mahrez leading the charge, they could potentially achieve great things this season. Therefore, if United want the Algerian, they’ll most likely have to hang on until the summer and part with a substantial amount of money.