Mahrez weighing Al Qadsiah approach as Saudi club explore free move after Al Ahli exit

Riyad Mahrez is being targeted for an immediate return to Saudi Pro League action, with Al Qadsiah exploring a free-transfer move for the former Al Ahli winger just days after his departure from the Jeddah club was confirmed.

According to Qatari newspaper Al Sharq, quoting Algerian channel “Algeria International”, the newly promoted Saudi side have made initial contact to clarify Mahrez’s legal status in the current transfer window following the end of his spell with Al Ahli.

Al Qadsiah’s board are understood to be examining the financial feasibility of a deal before submitting a formal offer for the Algeria captain’s former skipper, who would be available without a transfer fee.

The club, based in the Eastern Province, have placed the 35-year-old at the top of their shortlist to strengthen the right wing, identifying his profile as a priority due to his experience and ability to “make the difference” in the final third.

They see Mahrez’s track record – from his title-winning years in Europe with Leicester City and Manchester City to his performances with Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, known commercially as the Roshn Saudi League – as the ideal blend of pedigree and proven quality for their project.

Mahrez future still undecided

Mahrez’s next move remains uncertain, with the winger currently assessing several offers as he decides on the next step in a career that has included Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League triumph and domestic success in Saudi Arabia.

The report states that he is expected to make a decision on his future destination in the coming days, with Al Qadsiah aiming to take advantage of his free-agent status to present their sporting project as an attractive option.

The Saudi club hope the combination of a central role in their team rebuild and the opportunity to remain in a league he already knows will help persuade Mahrez to commit to their plans.

Mahrez recently brought to an end a three-year stint with Al Ahli, where he had been one of the headline overseas signings as the Jeddah side re-established themselves in the Saudi top flight following their return to the Roshn Saudi League.

While the exact details of his departure from Al Ahli have not been disclosed, his contractual situation now allows him to negotiate freely with interested clubs, both within Saudi Arabia and abroad.

Al Qadsiah’s move to sound out the legal and regulatory framework around a potential deal is viewed as a preliminary step, with any formal bid contingent on the club’s financial capacity to meet the player’s salary and associated costs.

As things stand, no agreement has been reached and Mahrez continues to evaluate his options, but Al Qadsiah are positioning themselves as a serious contender should the Algerian decide to extend his stay in Saudi football.