The race to sign Algerian star Riyad Mahrez has ignited, with Saudi club Neom SC and UAE’s Al Jazira entering a fierce competition to secure his services during the current summer transfer window.
Gulf Giants Compete for the Free Agent
According to Algerian reports, Al Jazira has already begun negotiations with Mahrez, who is currently available as a free agent. Meanwhile, Neom is closely monitoring the player’s situation, hoping to reunite him with his compatriot Said Benrahma within the Saudi squad.
European Interest: A Potential Return to Serie A?
The 35-year-old’s options are not limited to staying in the Arab region. His name has also been heavily linked with a move to the Italian Serie A, with both AS Roma and Como emerging as potential destinations—though the latter subsequently denied any interest in signing him this summer.
Previously, Mahrez had attracted interest from two Qatari clubs, including a team participating in the AFC Champions League. This leaves the former Manchester City star at a crossroads: continue his career in the Gulf or make a highly anticipated return to European pitches.
A Surprising Exit from Al Ahli
Mahrez is currently searching for a new destination following an abrupt end to his journey with Al Ahli. The Saudi club announced his departure last July, despite his contract running until the summer of 2027. This marks the end of a 3-season spell with the team since joining from Manchester City in 2023.
The former Algeria national team captain made 122 appearances for Al Ahli across all competitions, scoring 37 goals and providing 46 assists. He successfully led the team to consecutive AFC Champions League Elite titles in 2025 and 2026, along with the Saudi Super Cup in 2025.
An Historic Legacy with Manchester City
It is worth noting that Mahrez built the most prominent chapter of his career with Manchester City, where he scored 78 goals and provided 56 assists in 236 matches. He claimed 11 titles with the English giants, most notably 4 Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League as part of the historic treble in the 2022-2023 season.
