Riyad Mahrez set to wait for Barcelona offer

The Algerian winger already has an offer to join Arsenal but wants to wait for a potential offer from Barcelona before deciding his next destination. 

Mahrez endured a poor title defending season last campaign, finding the net only 10 times in 48 appearances as Leicester finished 12th in the Premier League. 

The 26-year-old confirmed his intention to leave the Foxes last month and released an official statement thanking the Leicester fans and chairman before saying: "However, I am fiercely ambitious and feel that now is the time to move on to a new experience." 

Arsenal, who were also linked to Mahrez at the end of last season, immediately stepped up their interest and were believed to have matched Leicester's asking price of £35 million. 

However, the Express has reported that Mahrez wants to wait for another club that has shown interest - Barcelona. The Catalan giants will definitely be the more attractive option as Mahrez will have a chance to play alongside the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Neymar. 

The Algerian's agent, Kamel Bengougam, has also spoken to Barcelona officials but it seems like the club will only turn their attention to Mahrez after signing a right-back and a midfielder. 

While a move to Barcelona is attractive, Mahrez will likely play second-fiddle to the front trio of Messi, Suarez, and Neymar. With the World Cup in 2018 approaching, Arsenal might be the best place for him to go as he will get ample playing time, given the fact that fellow winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is also expected to leave.