Al-Shabab expect decision on Riyad Mahrez move within 48 hours

Al-Shabab president Abdulaziz Al-Malek says the Saudi Pro League club should know within the next 48 hours whether they will complete a deal to sign Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez.

Mahrez is a free agent after his contract with Al-Ahli ended this summer, and Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat previously reported that he had reached an agreement with Al-Shabab over a move.

“Riyad Mahrez would be a major gain for Saudi football and for Al-Shabab. God willing, we will see what happens during the next 48 hours,” Al-Malek told reporters.

The proposed transfer is understood to be awaiting approval from the Financial Control Committee of the Saudi Pro League before it can be completed.

Reports indicate that the club and player have already settled the main contractual and personal terms of the agreement. The remaining process centres on receiving the necessary financial clearance for Al-Shabab to register the Algeria captain.

Al-Shabab appear to have moved ahead of Al-Ettifaq in the race to sign Mahrez. Al-Ettifaq had also been interested in acquiring the winger, who spent the past three years with Al-Ahli.

Earlier this week, Asharq Al-Awsat reported that negotiations were based on an annual salary of about $10m (£7.4m), equivalent to approximately 37.5m Saudi riyals.

Mahrez joined Al-Ahli after leaving Manchester City and has made a significant impact during his time with the Jeddah club. He helped Al-Ahli win the AFC Champions League Elite twice in succession.

Across all competitions, the 34-year-old made 122 appearances for Al-Ahli, scoring 37 goals and providing 46 assists.

A move to Al-Shabab would represent another major step in the Saudi Pro League’s recruitment of high-profile international players. However, the club must first secure permission from the league’s financial authorities before the transfer can be formally completed.

Al-Shabab currently sit 13th in the Saudi Pro League, with three points from their opening five matches. The club’s pursuit of Mahrez comes as they look to strengthen their squad and improve their position in the competition.

The next two days are therefore expected to determine whether Mahrez begins a new chapter with Al-Shabab, following his three seasons at Al-Ahli.