According to an exclusive announcement by Africafoot, Riyad Mahrez was close to joining Al Shabab, but the move did not materialize.

Several European clubs continue to show interest in Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez, while the 35-year-old has entered into negotiations with two Saudi clubs, Al Shabab and Al Ittihad. Mahrez has been without a club since July 2026. Both clubs are aiming to strengthen their offensive sector before the transfer market closes. The Algerian international has 119 caps and 40 goals for his country, and his current market value is €5.00m, according to Transfermarkt.