In recent weeks, Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani have both been linked with a move away from Leicester City.
In terms of Mahrez’s future, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal have been linked with a move for the former PFA Player of the Year. As for Slimani, the former Sporting Lisbon striker has been linked with Chelsea as Antonio Conte looks to sign a robust and physical striker. Newcastle United have also been mentioned as a potential destination for Slimani.
The Algerian duo caused a stir though after they were spotted at the Emirates during Arsenal’s League Cup victory over Chelsea.
After being linked to both clubs in recent weeks, some people thought that the duo were there to discuss a potential move. This being said, it’s reported the real reason for their attendance was so they could meet up with their friend and former teammate, N’Golo Kante, after the match.
During Claude Puel’s most recent press conference, the Leicester City manager offered another alternative reason for their presence at the Emirates. ‘I asked Mahrez and Slimani to watch the game between Chelsea and Arsenal to make a report. They are good scouts!’ he joked.
Puel later clarified Leicester’s stance on the immediate futures of both players. “There is nothing to say about Riyad or Slimani. I think it’s a good thing if there’s some noise about them because it shows they are good players and shows the quality of the team. ‘The transfer window is a period with speculation. We have to manage this period with calm. At the end of January we will be happy,” he said.
