Opinion

Everton given chance to sign Riyad Mahrez, The Friedkin Group may seriously consider it

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Riyad Mahrez is reportedly a free agent after leaving Al-Ahli.

Despite Transfermarkt stating that Mahrez’s contract expires next summer, French outlet L’Equipe have reported that he is leaving the Saudi Pro League side.

“Riyad Mahrez seems to be at a turning point in his career. After announcing his international retirement, the Algerian striker is also leaving his club Al-Ahli, with no indication of his next destination.”

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Hayden Hackney of England poses for a photograph during the official UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Winners' Portraits shoot following the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Final match between England and Germany at National Football stadium.
Credit: Getty Images/Tullio Puglia – UEFA

That said, Everton have been handed the perfect opportunity to sign the 35-year-old in a completely risk-free transfer.

Granted, Mahrez will be on substantial wages, but given there’s no fee attached, it’d be wise for David Moyes and his chiefs to have a serious look at the deal.

Algeria winger Riyad Mahrez.
Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images

Riyad Mahrez would be the perfect signing for Everton

Mahrez, albeit at a lower level, enjoyed a very productive season last term.

The former Manchester City and Leicester wide player registered 23 goal involvements in Saudi’s top flight.

The left-footed attacker also had a decent World Cup, netting twice in Algeria’s 3-3 draw against Austria and laying on an assist in the 2-1 victory over Jordan.

Everton could seriously benefit from Mahrez’s quality on the right flank, and he’d also be a great influence for Tyler Dibling and Tyrique George.

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Riyad Mahrez in action for Algeria.
Photo by Nick Tre. Smith/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The aforementioned youngsters could learn a lot from the five-time Premier League champion, who is a master at creating space to curl in a strike.

The Friedkin Group have already shown they’re willing to pay lofty wages for the right player, having signed Jack Grealish last summer.

The American investors would also be well aware of the shirt sales Mahrez would command, which would lighten the load of his salary.

Given Moyes places great emphasis on recruiting players with Premier League experience, this signing makes a lot of sense and is one to keep an eye on over the coming weeks.

Mahrez could reunite with his former City teammates Grealish and John Stones, if indeed they both sign for the Toffees as rumoured.