Riyad Mahrez’s next destination remains unknown after his tenure with Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli came to an end and he became a free agent, amidst interest from several clubs looking to sign him during the summer transfer window.
While the Algerian star weighs his options between remaining in the Arab region or taking on one final European experience, Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca has emerged as a surprise contender that could alter his path, although no official negotiations have taken place thus far.
An agent recently offered Mahrez to Wydad officials in an effort to explore the club’s stance on incorporating the 35-year-old into its new project.
Wydad’s management expressed initial openness to the idea and inquired about the financial demands required to complete the deal; however, the matter remains at an exploratory stage without a formal bid or advanced negotiations with the player.
Wydad is not the only potential destination for Mahrez, as he has been linked with Saudi Arabia’s NEOM, the UAE’s Al Jazira, and multiple Qatari clubs, while rumors also suggested interest from Italy’s Roma and Como regarding a return to Europe—though Como’s sporting director subsequently denied any desire to sign him.
Mahrez departed Al Ahli following three successful seasons, during which he featured in 122 matches across all competitions, scoring 37 goals and providing 46 assists, while leading the side to back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles as well as the Saudi Super Cup.
The prospect of signing Mahrez aligns with Wydad’s recent sporting strategy, as the Moroccan club has increasingly targeted high-profile players with extensive European experience, most notably Hakim Ziyech, who joined in October 2025, and France’s Wissam Ben Yedder in early 2026.
