Ismael Bennacer has been one of the stand-out performers so far this season for AC Milan and they want to secure a renewal as soon as possible, a report claims.
Calciomercato.com describe Bennacer as the ‘extra man in the middle of the field’ for Milan as he has formed a brilliant pairing with Sandro Tonali in the double pivot, with the duo understanding each others’ strengths and tendencies in terms of movement.
Pioli trusts Bennacer and considers him an untouchable member of his first choice starting XI, and that is why he has played all eight games so far this season across Serie A and the Champions League, with seven of these played as a starter.
The signature on the renewal of the contract expiring in 2024 has not yet arrived though, and director Paolo Maldini spoke before the match with Dinamo Zagreb to make it clear that it is a two-sided negotiation.
“For the renewals we have already started talking for some time with both Leao and Bennacer. I believe that the will of the players does a lot, because the will of the club is there,” he said.
Milan’s latest offer to the Algerian – worth around €3m net per season – was not accepted. Instead, his agent Sissoko wants much more money. Bennacer now earns around €1.7m and would like more than double.
Milan are ready to grant him a substantial increase, but they will not go crazy. Therefore, the parties will talk again, and the goal is to reach an agreement by the end of the year.
