Contract negotiations between Riyad Mahrez and Manchester City have 'recently advanced', according to an emerging report.
The Algerian has been a key player for Pep Guardiola since his arrival at the club in 2018, popping up in some of the most crucial moments. Most notably, his three goals in the Champions League semi-final in 2021/22 guided City to their first-ever final appearance.
He is amongst a host of Blues players that are out of contract in 2023 and a decision on his future will have to be made relatively soon. According to Santi Aouna at Footmercato, negotiations regarding a potential contract extension for Mahrez have 'recently advanced'.
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The deal - that could be sealed very soon - will reportedly be a short term one, with the 31-year-old continuing to be a major part of Guardiola's plans. The Catalan 'absolutely doesn't want to part with' Mahrez and would like him to extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite a host of world-class options in that area, Mahrez's experience and undeniable quality will be vital in ensuring City achieve even more success next season.
Elsewhere, as Gabriel Jesus' move to Arsenal edges ever closer and they are expected to announce his arrival at the Emirates as early as Monday, according to The Telegraph.
The deal - rumoured to be in the £50 million range - will then allow City to officially complete the £45 million signing of Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United. With £51 million already spent on Erling Haaland, it will take City's summer spending up to the £100 million range. However, many will note the sales of Jesus, Gavin Bazunu and Pedro Porro have reduced the club's net spend significantly.
After over five years in Manchester, it looks like Jesus is ready to leave and become a regular starter elsewhere. He has been trusted to play in some of City's biggest games but has really failed to nail down a starting spot.
Phillips will be brought in as former club captain Fernandinho's natural replacement, but his versatility allows him to play in both midfield positions. In such a hectic, World Cup-disrupted season, that will be particularly vital and something Guardiola will admire from the Yorkshire-born midfielder.
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