Leicester City forward Riyad Mahrez has confirmed that he will not be leaving the King Power Stadium in January, news that could disappoint Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
Speaking to RMC, as per The Guardian, the Algeria international has acknowledged that he would not be open to a move in the upcoming transfer window.
“It’s best for me to stay until the end of the season,” he confirmed, before confirming that he felt a great sense of loyalty towards Leicester.
“It’s best for me to stay until the end of the season. I was at Le Havre, I had six months left but nobody came to get me. Leicester tried very hard to get me,” he continued.
“I could feel that they wanted me. I took the decision without knowing the culture or the area. It was a risk.
“When you come from far away and you ended up in the Premier League it makes you happy.”
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The 24-year-old was a key figure last term as the Foxes came back from near-certain relegation to preserve their top-flight status.
However, this year he has taken his game to another level, scoring 11 goals and contributing seven assists as Claudio Ranieri’s side have stunned their EPL opponents.
After 16 matches, the East Midlands outfit sit atop the Premier League, having amassed a considerable 35 points from their games to date.
Under the Italian’s guidance, they have won 10 games, losing only one, and were in superb form on Monday as they secured a 2-1 victory over reigning champions Chelsea.
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Naturally, their fine form has prompted interest in some of their key players, with both Mahrez and hotshot Jamie Vardy linked with moves away from the club
Arsenal and Tottenham are understood to be keen on the North African wideman [Independent], while Chelsea have been tipped to be considering a move for the England international [Metro].