Ismael Bennacer chose to snub interest from the Premier League in order to sign a new deal with AC Milan, it has been revealed.
It was officially confirmed last night that Bennacer has extended his deal with Milan by a further three years, shifting the previous deadline of June 2024 to 2027 and netting a substantial pay rise in recognition of his status as one of the most important members of the squad.
According to Fabrizio Romano – who spoke in a column for CaughtOffside – Liverpool asked to be kept informed about Bennacer’s situation even after he changed his agent to Enzo Raiola, but they never made a bid.
However, the presence of a €50m release clause in Bennacer’s deal that becomes active in 2024 means that the door is not closed for the future.
“It’s official – Ismael Bennacer has signed a new contract with AC Milan valid until June 2027. The new deal will also include a €50m release clause only valid in July 2024, not next summer,” Romano said.
“Liverpool were informed on the situation with his new agent but they never made a proposal for Bennacer, it was just interest. Despite rumours, Chelsea never approached the player.”
