Marseille ‘want Riyad Mahrez’ for cut-price £26.5million — despite brutally rejecting Leicester star in 2014
Former president Vincent Labrune had chance to sign Algerian but insisted he felt 'insulted' at quality of player on offer
MARSEILLE are hoping to secure a deal for Riyad Mahrez, according to reports.
The 2016 PFA Players' Player of the Year, 26, handed in a transfer request in the summer — and was close to joining Roma.
However, the move never materialised with the Serie A side falling way short of the Foxes' £32million valuation and he remained at the King Power stadium.
Mundo Deportivo report Marseille are now eyeing up a deal for Mahrez — and believe they could secure him for a cut-price £26.5m.
He was a fan of the Ligue 1 side growing up, however when they had the chance to sign him in December 2014, they turned their noses up at him.
And they delivered the most brutal rejection.
Former president Vincent Labrune said at the time: "Do you really think that Leicester players now have a place at Olympique Marseille, in the project we've got?
"To save time, let me tell you, we try to be professional and qualitative with our recruitment.
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"The probability of us taking this sort of player is zero.
"Don't take this the wrong way, but I don't put up with people taking me for a sucker."
Mahrez went on to star as Leicester shocked the world of sport by clinching the 2015-16 Premier League title.
Marseille have ambitious plans following American Frank McCourt's acquisition of the club.
With Monaco struggling, second place in Ligue 1 has become a realistic target this season.
