Pedulla: €40m bid ready for Bennacer as Chelsea and Man Utd do battle

AC Milan may well have to brace themselves for offers from abroad for Ismael Bennacer while they continue to grapple with his renewal.

Alfredo Pedulla writes how Bennacer – who turned 25 yesterday – remains a fundamental player for Milan but with his contract set to expire in June 2024 and no imminent agreement over an extension, his future remains uncertain.

An interesting turning point has come too as he has chosen to get rid of his previous agent Moussa Sissoko in order to have Enzo Raiola represent him. Next week there will be a summit between Raiola and technical director Paolo Maldini, to discuss a renewal that is ‘not easy’.

No agreements had been reached before the change in attorney, and while Bennacer is obviously attached to Milan and would be willing to renew, his minimum figure for doing so is €4m net per season plus bonuses.

Pedulla adds that there was talk of Liverpool being interested but this has not become concrete, but Chelsea appreciate Bennacer a lot and would offer €40m in January. Manchester United are also keen, but perhaps do not have ‘the same appeal’ as Chelsea at present, while the Algerian is intrigued by the idea of a future in England.