Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Lionel Messi gives his approval for Barcelona to sign Riyad Mahrez - report
LIONEL MESSI has reportedly given his approval for Barcelona to sign Leicester star Riyad Mahrez.
Riyad Mahrez - 5 things you need to know
The Algerian was Leicester’s Player of the Year when they defied the odds to win the Premier League last year.
Last month, Mahrez confirmed his desire to leave the Foxes.
Recent reports suggested Arsenal are tracking the winger and Arsene Wenger is considering him as a potential transfer target.
Chelsea have also been mooted as a possible destination, with Antonio Conte desperate to seek cover for Eden Hazard, who fractured his ankle while on international duty with Belgium earlier this month.
Riyad Mahrez has confirmed he wants to leave Leicester
And according to Spanish news outlet Don Balon, Mahrez has caught the eye of Barcelona.
It is said the 26-year-old dreams of playing alongside the likes of Neymar and Messi.
Don Balon also claim Messi has given the green light to a possible deal and thinks Mahrez would slot in seamlessly into the team.
Lionel Messi has given his approval for Barcelona to sign Lionel Messi
However, it is suggested Barca will take their time and won’t rush into a decision.
The Catalan giants have several transfer targets in mind as new boss Ernesto Valverde seeks to reclaim the La Liga title from Real Madrid.
And should Mahrez move to the Nou Camp, it would show a signal of intent.
Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?