Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez not fazed by Roma transfer talk - Vardy

Leicester City playmaker Riyad Mahrez is not being distracted by reports that Serie A club Roma are set to make an improved bid for him, teammate Jamie Vardy has said.

Algeria international Mahrez has handed in a transfer request but is training with Leicester until a club matches their asking price.

Roma had a first bid of £20 million rejected, but reports in Italy say they are prepared to increase that to £26m.

However, Leicester are reported to be holding out for £30 million, with Arsenal also linked with Mahrez.

But Vardy told the Leicester Mercury: "It is just all paper talk.

"Riyad has been the one linked left, right and centre, but from what we understand no bids have come in and he has been training exactly how he would have last year and the year before that.

"It has not changed him. Until the club reach an agreement with anyone and accept a bid, then that will be time for him to go talk to them.

"At the moment there is nothing, and he is giving 110 percent in training. He isn't letting it affect him."

Roma sporting director Monchi is reported to have discussed the release of more funds with president James Pallotta in order to convince Leicester to sell.

Il Corriere dello Sport reported that Monchi is seeking permission to make Mahrez the club's biggest investment in transfer fee and wages combined in the past six years.

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