Riyad Mahrez is in advanced negotiations to join Al-Shamal after leaving Al-Ahli this summer and ending his Algeria career following the 2026 World Cup.
The 35-year-old winger is currently a free agent but is close to beginning a new chapter in the Qatar Stars League. A move to Al-Shamal would also reunite him with fellow Algeria international Baghdad Bounedjah.
Mahrez has attracted interest from clubs around the world in recent months, including in Europe and Brazil. However, the former Manchester City player has opted to remain in the Gulf, with the opportunity to compete in the AFC Champions League Elite in Qatar helping to convince the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations winner to move to Doha.
The prospective transfer would give Mahrez an ideal setting for one final challenge at the highest level of continental football.
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Riyad Mahrez in advanced talks over Al-Shamal move Oct 2, 2026 -
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