Man Utd Transfer News: Leicester star Riyad Mahrez tried to force Old Trafford move

LEICESTER star Riyad Mahrez’s deadline day movements were down to a desire to join Manchester United, it has been claimed.

Pogba potentially 'recruiting' Mahrez to Manchester United

Mahrez was pictured in Paris on deadline day, with Algeria confirming they had released him from international duty to allow him to negotiate a transfer.

Chelsea appeared set to sign him with Barcelona also being mentioned as a potential destination.

However, the Daily Star claim Mahrez had his heart set on a move to Old Trafford.

It is said he instructed his representatives to try and broker a move to Jose Mourinho's side.

And Leicester, who had received no bid from the Red Devils, were left confused by his actions.

Man Utd Transfer News: Leicester star Riyad Mahrez wanted to join Jose Mourinho's side

Mahrez was aware that United wanted a winger after being thwarted in their attempts to land the likes of Gareth Bale and Ivan Perisic.

But the Red Devils opted not to take him up on his wish.

United have struggled with wingers in recent seasons.

Angel Di Maria arrived from Real Madrid in 2014 with Louis van Gaal hopeful he would fire his side to silverware aplenty.

Manchester United Riyad Mahrez transfer newsGETTY

Man Utd transfer news: Riyad Mahrez wanted to leave Leicester for Old Trafford

But the Argentina international toiled in England left for Paris Saint-Germain just 12 months later.

United then opted to place their faith in youngsters such as Adnan Januzaj and Memphis Depay, who arrived from PSV Eindhoven in 2015.

But the Holland international struggled and was sold by Mourinho to Lyon 18 months later.

Aditionally, Januzaj was sold to Real Sociedad this summer after struggling at loan spells with Borussia Dortmund and Sunderland. 

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