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AS Roma's sporting director reveals why Mahrez was not sold
Monchi made a name for himself during his time with Sevilla, making shrewd signings who helped improve the team and then profiting from their sales. He joined AS Roma in the summer and revealed why Riyad Mahrez is still a Leicester City player despite him submitting a transfer request.
Monchi told Gazzetta dello Sport:
"We wanted a forward that could replace Mohamed Salah and we thought of [Riyad] Mahrez. However, if the deal was not carried out it was because the club did not want to sell [him]. It's not an excuse, since they also said no to Barcelona."
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Thus, the Foxes' refusal to budge from their £50 million valuation of the player prevented a move from happening. His statement also confirms Barcelona's interest in the player and they could come back for him in the upcoming transfer window.
Barcelona to fight Real Madrid for Juan Mata
The Spaniard's contract runs out in the summer and he is yet to sign a new deal. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid believe that the 29-year-old is a good fit for their respective sides, as per Diario Gol.
The report further states that Zidane has spoken to club president Florentino Perez regarding a possible move for the former academy graduate while Ernesto Valverde believes Mata will fit in easily in his midfield.
Mata is free to talk to foreign clubs from January and Jose Mourinho needs to act fast if he intends to keep the player.
Ernesto Valverde makes Yerry Mina decision
Palmeiras defender Yerry Mina is set to join the Catalan club for €9 million in July 2018, amidst rumours of a possible January arrival. With the centre-back position a top priority for Valverde in January, the club and coach have made a decision on Mina, as per Marca.
Barcelona want the Colombian to join at the end of the season as per the reports and ruled out any chance of completing the deal in January. While this could come as a blow to the 23-year-old, he is set to arrive at Camp Nou either way in the summer.
The Blaugrana ruling out Mina's arrival implies the club will look at other targets in January.
