Transfer News: Liverpool make an offer for AC Milan’s Ismael Bennacer
AC Milan’s Ismael Bennacer runs out of contract in 2024 (Transfermarkt) and keeping in mind that he will enter the final 12 months of his contract soon, Liverpool have made an offer for the player, as per Corriere Dello Sport (h/t Liverpool Echo).
The 26-year-old previously saw himself linked with the Reds as well, when the need for a new midfielder at the club was at its peak. Milan’s offer for a new contract stood rejected by Bennacer and his team earlier this year in September, which makes the speculation all the more interesting.
The Algerian, even though has no Premier League experience, needs no introduction to the English top tier. An Arsenal Youth Academy Graduate, he made the move to Empoli in 2017 from where he eventually signed for Milan in 2019.
Notably, in his only appearance for Arsenal, he came on as a substitute for eventual Liverpool midfielder, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. With the Ox in mind, another report from Calciomercato (h/t Liverpool Echo) claims that Milan show interest in signing Chamberlain and have also targeted Naby Keita.
Bennacer to Liverpool
With the pair running out of contract at Liverpool next summer, and with no signs of an extension yet, the possibility of a player-plus-cash deal could perhaps come to reality in the January window. The Reds could feasibly offload two injury-prone players and do themselves a world of good by getting Bennacer on board.
The Algerian international is a very versatile player and can play any role in a three-midfield man ranging from defensive to attacking midfield. At only 26, he would be entering the prime of his playing career and the Reds would benefit from having a player of his profile in their books.
An ever-mounting injury list and the factor of an ageing squad could both be ceased with the signing of a young midfielder. In case the Reds’ pursuit of Jude Bellingham does not go through for any reason, Liverpool can turn their heads to the Algerian as a prospect.
More Liverpool News:
- Matthew Upson slams Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez for Uruguay performance against Portugal
- Liverpool have rejected the chance to sign Brighton & Hove Albion forward Leandro Trossard
- Former Liverpool defender Jose Enrique believes England manager Gareth Southgate does not trust Trent Alexander-Arnold
Bennacer is not a part of the World Cup as his country did not qualify for the event. However, he could be a part of Milan’s squad for the club friendlies in Dubai later in December against Liverpool, wherein the gaffer Jurgen Klopp will have a closer look at the potential transfer target.
