A surprise deal: will Riyad Mahrez move to Wydad of Morocco?

The Algerian star left Al-Ahly after the end of last season.

Press reports have revealed the truth about Algeria's Riyad Mahrez, the former Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia star, and his move to Wydad of Morocco during the current summer transfer window.

Wydad were reportedly weighing up a free transfer for Mahrez this summer, with the winger a free agent since Al-Ahli terminated his contract at the end of last season.

Algerian press quoted by Saudi Arabia's "Arriyadiyah" newspaper ruled out the option entirely. The move never got beyond an idea inside the Moroccan club, never turning into anything concrete.

Completing the deal would have been a tall order for Wydad, especially with Italy's Roma keen on the Algerian, along with a handful of Saudi Roshn League clubs.

The reports point to Mahrez's sheer technical quality and vast experience, factors that make it hard for any club outside Europe or the Gulf to land him.

"Harrouz" has enjoyed a glittering career, particularly at Manchester City. He won the Premier League title four times between 2018 and 2023 before joining Al-Ahli, where he claimed the AFC Champions League Elite twice.