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Riyad Mahrez to Arsenal: Leicester boss Craig Shakespeare plays down summer transfer
LEICESTER boss Craig Shakespeare has played down the possibility of losing star man Riyad Mahrez this summer.
Leicester winger Riyad Mahrez linked with Arsenal move
Mahrez played a huge part in Leicester's Premier League title success last term and was again crucial in this season's road to the Champions League quarter-finals.
The Algeria international was heavily linked with a move to Arsenal last summer, but remained at the King Power Stadium after signing a bumper new contract.
And the Gunners have again been linked with a move for Mahrez after the 26-year-old winger revealed his desire to play Champions League football every season.
But Shakespeare has no problem with Mahrez's European ambitions.
Craig Shakespeare has no problems with Riyad Mahrez's Champions League ambitions
Leicester boss Craig Shakespeare plays down Riyad Mahrez to Arsenal rumours
Leicester will not be involved in any European football next season but the Foxes boss admits the club are aiming to get back to Europe's elite competition.
When asked about Mahrez's desire for Champions League football, Shakespeare said: "It can be interpreted in different ways.
"I think there's nothing wrong with ambition, whether that be from a player, a manager or a coach.
"Him saying he wants to play in the Champions League - I think you'll remember I said after being knocked out by Atletico, we want to experience this again. I don't see any problem with that."
Craig Shakespeare confident of keeping Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel
Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has also been linked with a summer exit, with Manchester United said to be keen on the Denmark No 1.
But Shakespeare insists Schmeichel - Leicester's Player of the Season and Players' Player of the Season - is happy at the Foxes.
Shakespeare added: "His performances this season have highlighted he's one of the best keepers out there, and we are happy with him.
"He is happy with us, we've had no offers for him, so that's how I see it with him."