Riyad Mahrez could return to Europe as Roma interest emerges

Riyad Mahrez could make a return to European football this summer, with Serie A and AS Roma reportedly among the options being considered by the former Manchester City winger.

The 35-year-old Algeria international has spent the past three seasons in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli and is now a free agent. Reports suggest Mahrez is open to taking on a new challenge in Europe after his spell in the Middle East.

Italy is understood to be one of the possible destinations for the experienced forward, with Roma and Como both linked with him. However, Como sporting director Carlalberto Ludi has denied that the club has had direct contact with the Algerian.

A move to Roma would carry particular significance for Mahrez because the Italian club previously attempted to sign him in 2017.

At the time, Mahrez was one of the leading players at Leicester City after playing a key role in the club’s remarkable Premier League title success. Roma’s efforts to bring him to the Italian capital were ultimately unsuccessful, with the winger instead moving to Manchester City.

Nine years on, Mahrez has once again been linked with a move to Roma, although the circumstances are now considerably different.

The Algerian is no longer tied to a club and has extensive experience at the highest level of European football. His availability as a free agent could make him an appealing option for a team seeking to add experience and attacking quality to its squad.

Reports from the Saudi press suggest Mahrez is now more focused on finding the right sporting project than on financial considerations.

After spending several seasons in the Middle East, a return to Europe would give the veteran forward an opportunity to take on another challenge during the later stage of his career.

Mahrez has made 119 appearances for Algeria and scored 40 goals for his country. He announced his international retirement after the Greens were eliminated from the World Cup.

His next destination remains uncertain, but a move to Italy could finally give Mahrez the opportunity to play in Serie A. For Roma, it could also provide another chance to sign a player they first pursued in 2017.