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Leicester reject bid for Riyad Mahrez from Roma, confirms Craig Shakespeare

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Watch Leicester manager Craig Shakespeare's Friday press conference as he confirms Roma have bid for Riyad Mahrez

Leicester boss Craig Shakespeare has confirmed the club have rejected a bid from Roma for wantaway star Riyad Mahrez.

Mahrez has been heavily linked with a move away from the King Power Stadium, with a number of clubs thought to be monitoring the winger.

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Earlier this week, Shakespeare claimed that the Foxes had not received any bids for the Algeria international, although he moved to clarify the situation on Friday after learning of Roma's approach.

"I think I was quoted on the last press day that there was no bids," Shakespeare said. "There was a bid from Roma, I was told afterwards, so I would like to put the record straight on that one.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 26:  Craig Shakespeare, manager of Leicester City instructs his side as Riyad Mahrez of Leicester City looks on  during the Premier
Image: Craig Shakespeare claims the bid for Mahrez was too small to be considered

"It was politely declined on the basis that it was a low offer. Of what that offer is, don't ask me how much because I don't know and I don't get involved in that."

Mahrez put the uncertainty surrounding his future to one side on Wednesday afternoon to help Leicester progress to the final of the Asia Trophy in Hong Kong.

The 26-year-old netted a superb goal against West Brom as the Foxes eventually triumphed on penalties after regular time had ended in a 1-1 draw.

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Watch Mahrez's goal for Leicester against West Brom in the Premier League Asia Trophy opener on Wednesday

Leicester stalwart Andy King insists Mahrez must continue to give his all for the team or face being "dug out" by his team-mates, and Shakespeare was quick to echo his midfielder.

"I think you saw in Riyad's performance [against West Brom] and I've seen a lot of quotes from our players - he's here as a Leicester player and until we're told otherwise, we expect him to perform at the high standards we all set.

Riyad Mahrez scored Leicester's equaliser against West Brom in their Premier League Asia Trophy clash in Hong Kong
Image: Mahrez and Leicester will face Liverpool in Saturday's Asia Trophy final in Hong Kong, live on Sky Sports

"He's a team player. Individuals are involved in this team sport so they have to adhere to the rules of a team game and while he does that he'll be considered for selection."

Leicester will now face Liverpool in the final of the Asia Trophy on Saturday, live on Sky Sports Premier League from 1pm, before they return to England for their remaining pre-season games against Luton, MK Dons, Wolves, Burton Albion and Borussia Monchengladbach.

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