Riyad Mahrez could make a surprise return to European football, with Deportivo La Coruña reportedly considering a late move for the Algeria international.
The 35-year-old winger has been without a club since leaving Al-Ahli and has received several offers from the Middle East.
However, Spanish journalist Juan Arrien reports that Deportivo are exploring the possibility of bringing Mahrez to Spain as the club prepares for its return to La Liga.
Deportivo targeting experience
Mahrez would fit Deportivo’s strategy of adding experienced players to their squad.
The Galician club have already signed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, 37, while also bringing in 30-year-old Spain international Adama Traoré, who is of Malian origin.
Mahrez would offer another experienced attacking option, with his technical ability, close control and left foot potentially suited to Spanish football.
Deportivo have started the campaign with consecutive 1-1 draws against Elche and Málaga, with Aubameyang scoring both of their goals.
Salary could decide Mahrez’s future
The biggest obstacle to a potential move to Spain could be Mahrez’s salary expectations.
UAE club Al-Wasl are reportedly prepared to offer the former Manchester City star a two-year contract with an option for another season worth around €7 million per year, excluding bonuses.
That would be considerably more than Aubameyang’s reported €4.5m annual salary at Deportivo.
For Mahrez to join the Spanish side, he would therefore likely have to accept a significant reduction in his wages.
Saudi clubs also interested
Mahrez has other options available.
Saudi Pro League clubs Al-Shabab and Al-Ettifaq are reportedly in discussions with the winger, with offers understood to be worth around $10 million per year.
Mahrez already knows Saudi football well after spending three seasons with Al-Ahli.
During his time at the club, he recorded 37 goals and 46 assists in 122 appearances.
The Algerian therefore faces a clear choice: pursue another lucrative contract in the Gulf or accept considerably lower wages for what could be one final European adventure.
A final European challenge?
Mahrez has already announced his retirement from international football following the 2026 World Cup, removing one consideration that could previously have influenced his club decision.
A move to Deportivo would represent a return to European football after his time in Saudi Arabia and could give the former Manchester City star an opportunity to experience La Liga for the first time.
For now, Deportivo’s interest remains at the exploratory stage, while Mahrez weighs up his options in what could be one of the final major moves of his playing career.
