Man City plotting shock move for Raphinha if Riyad Mahrez leaves this summer

Manchester City are reportedly plotting a shock move for Raphinha if Riyad Mahrez leaves the club this summer.

Mahrez has been heavily linked with a move to Saudia Arabia, with Al-Ahli allegedly lining up a €20m offer for the winger.

But should the 32-year-old leave the Etihad, Pep Guardiola has earmarked Barcelona winger Raphinha as a potential replacement.

That's according to French outlet Foot Mercato, who claim that the Brazilian is a "priority" for the Sky Blues.

The report adds that Barcelona need to raise €60m by August 31 in order to register last year's signings, and are willing to listen to any offers for the winger.

Not to mention Raphinha's Premier League experience, having previously spent two seasons with Leeds where he scored 17 goals and provided 12 assists across 65 top-flight appearances.

The publication also states that Manchester City sporting director Txiki Begiristain has been in contact with Deco this week, who holds the same position at the Catalan club.

And despite Raphinha previously pledging his allegiance to Barca, he will ‘certainly’ consider a move to the Etihad should an offer materialise.

City have already lost their captain Ilkay Gundogan, who joined FC Barcelona for free. Meanwhile, Kyle Walker, Bernardo Silva and Mahrez have all been rumoured with moves abroad.

In turn, the reigning English champions may need to dip their toe into the transfer market to ensure they are prepared to fight on all fronts next season.

Topics: Riyad Mahrez, Raphinha, Manchester City, Transfers, Football, Premier League

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno