Arsenal lodge Mahrez bid

Arsenal have made a €41 million offer for Riyad Mahrez, with the Leicester City winger desperate to join the Gunners, according to reports in France.

L’Equipe are reporting that Arsenal have submitted a firm offer of €41 million to Premier League champions Leicester City, as they try persuade the Foxes to part ways with PFA Player of the Year Riyad Mahrez.

L’Equipe also claim that the gifted Algerian winger is desperate to join the Gunners, and is willing to do whatever it takes to force through a move to the Emirates.

Paris born Mahrez joined Leicester from French Ligue 2 side Le Havre 18 months ago, and initially struggled to break into the first team under former manager Nigel Pearson. But when Claudio Ranieri took the reins at the King Power Stadium at the beginning of last season, Mahrez became a key player for the Foxes, and his goals and assists played a huge part in firing Leicester to an unlikely title triumph.

Arsenal have already attempted to sign one of Leicester’s star men this summer, after making a £20 million bid for England striker Jamie Vardy.

The offer triggered Vardy’s release clause, but the former non-league player elected to turn down the Gunners in favour of staying with Leicester next season, as the Foxes prepare to defend their Premier League crown, while competing in the Champions League for the first time.