Manchester City star set to hold showdown talks with Pep Guardiola over club future

Pep Guardiola is set to sit down and talk with Manchester City forward Riyad Mahrez over the Algerian’s club future, it has been reported.

The 32-year-old is at the centre of widespread transfer speculation this summer, as he comes off the back of a season of mixed fortunes, despite registering over 45 appearances and being one of Manchester City’s main contributors in front of goal.

However, with the five-time Premier League winner firmly in the twilight years of his career, there may be time for one final fresh challenge within the game, despite him and his family being settled in the north-west of England.

Saudi Arabia remain the most interested suitors for Riyad Mahrez this summer, with a bid for the winger now expected to land in the coming days, but Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is determined to keep hold of his star forward.

That is according to the information of The Mirror’s David McDonnell, who states that Riyad Mahrez will hold talks with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola about his Etihad Stadium future, amid intensifying interest from Saudi Arabia.

While the Premier League champions are bracing themselves for an opening £30 million bid from Al Ahli in the coming hours and days, no formal offer has yet been submitted.

The Mirror report that City boss Pep Guardiola does not want to lose Riyad Mahrez this summer, and would like the 33-year-old to stay beyond the ongoing transfer window and continue to aid his forward line going into the new season.

Manchester City are only expected to revisit the transfer market after a potential signing of Josko Gvardiol, and only in the event of further departures from the first-team squad following Ilkay Gundogan’s exit earlier this summer.

The understanding regarding the wide positions however is that City may look to operate with their existing options, even if Riyad Mahrez were to leave the club, with a lack of clear targets for the role available on the market.

James McAtee is expected to play a role in the first-team set-up next season, and may be utilised in a variety of roles including his own central position, depending on the strengths of the opponent.

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