Transfer Centre

Claude Puel: 'Riyad Mahrez is disappointed by failed transfer'

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 31 January 2018

Claude Puel admits that Riyad Mahrez is upset at missing out on a possible move to Manchester City, but hopes that the Algerian winger will soon be "back with a smile".

Leicester City manager Claude Puel has confessed that Riyad Mahrez is 'disappointed' after seeing a deadline-day deal collapse for the second transfer window in a row.

The Algeria international handed in a transfer request at the King Power Stadium on Tuesday afternoon for the second time in eight months, amid rumoured interest from Premier League pacesetters Manchester City.

Mahrez, who also saw moves to Arsenal and Roma break down in the summer, was said to have been left unhappy after Leicester pulled out of talks with the Citizens earlier today.

Man City reportedly proposed a player-plus-cash deal worth around £60m, which is £15m below the Foxes' valuation for the winger.

Speaking after Leicester's 2-1 loss at Everton, Puel ruled out a last-minute transfer and told Sky Sports News: "We will see with Riyad - perhaps there is some disappointment - but today we had to focus on the game.

"It's always a difficult situation but I hope Riyad can come back with a smile, happy to play for us."

Mahrez has scored 35 goals and contributed 24 assists in 127 top-flight appearances for Leicester.