Real Madrid to target Mahrez as Bale replacement

Real Madrid are keeping close tabs on the Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez, but everything reportedly depends on Gareth Bale.

Real Madrid have their eyes set on Mahrez, as Zinedine Zidane looks to bolster the right side of his attack.

Los Blancos are well-stocked at the left-wing. The likes of Marco Asensio, Eden Hazard, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Junior provide enough quality and depth.

But, Gareth Bale remains the only winger comfortable operating on the right. Yet, the Welshman’s awkward situation at the Bernabeu is the elephant in the room.

Zidane is seeking for a potential buyer for the highly-paid 31-year-old superstar. Unfortunately, his search has fallen flat so far.

A very few sides can afford Bale’s whopping wages in these uncertain times. Furthermore, his lack of commitment and long-term absence from the pitch doesn’t exactly make him the most wanted property.

As reported by Eurosport, the French manager is hoping to offload his deadwood by the end of the transfer window and bring in a new face in Mahrez.

The Algerian star has three years remaining at his contract at Manchester City. He featured for Pep Guardiola’s side 50 times last season, racking up 13 goals and 16 assists across all competitions.

It’s, therefore, uncertain whether City would want to let Mahrez leave this summer. Even if they do, Real must first get rid of Bale.

But, bringing the 29-year-old into the equation represents a short-term solution. Moreover, his arrival, if it happens, could come at the expense of Martin Odegaard.

Odegaard returned to the capital after flourishing during his season-long loan at Real Sociedad. The 21-year-old’s jaw-dropping performances for the Basque outfit are thought to have convinced Zidane to give him a chance to fight for a regular starting berth in Madrid.