Riyad Mahrez’s potential move to Wydad has not progressed beyond initial consideration, according to reports from Algeria cited by Saudi newspaper Al Riyadiya.
The Moroccan club had reportedly been exploring the possibility of signing the Algeria international as a free agent during the current summer transfer window. Mahrez became available after Al Ahli terminated his contract following the conclusion of last season.
However, the reported interest does not appear to have developed into formal negotiations or a concrete move by Wydad. Reports cited by Al Riyadiya said the idea remained at the level of internal consideration at the Moroccan club, with no evidence of an active attempt to complete the deal.
Wydad would also face significant competition if it decided to pursue the former Manchester City player. Mahrez is understood to be attracting interest from Italian club Roma, while a number of Saudi Pro League teams are also reportedly monitoring his situation.
The Algerian winger’s technical ability and extensive experience at the highest level are expected to make him a difficult player for Wydad to sign. According to the reports, those qualities could make a move outside Europe or the Gulf region particularly challenging, despite his current status as a free agent.
Mahrez, 34, has built a distinguished career in European and international football. His most prominent spell came with Manchester City, where he won the Premier League title four times between 2018 and 2023.
He joined Al Ahli after leaving Manchester City and subsequently added further success to his record with the Saudi club. Al Ahli won the AFC Champions League Elite twice during his time there.
That combination of elite-level experience, technical quality and a strong trophy record has contributed to the interest surrounding his next destination. While Wydad has been linked with the player, the available information indicates that the Moroccan club has not yet turned its reported interest into a formal transfer operation.
For now, Mahrez remains without a club after the end of his association with Al Ahli. Roma and clubs from the Saudi Pro League are among the teams linked with him, while a move to Wydad appears to remain only a possibility rather than an advanced transfer.