Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer is reportedly contemplating a departure from AC Milan, potentially heading to the Saudi Pro League. With a contract running until June 2027, the midfielder’s future at the Italian club is now uncertain amid rising transfer speculation.
Bennacer, who has been with AC Milan since 2017, is no longer considered untouchable at the club, according to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà.
The 26-year-old midfielder is rumored to be open to new challenges, with a move to Saudi Arabia emerging as a viable option.
Discussions between Bennacer’s representatives and emissaries from Saudi clubs reportedly took place on June 29, indicating serious interest from the Middle Eastern league.
Among the Saudi clubs interested in Bennacer is Al-Hilal, the reigning champion of the Saudi Pro League.
Al-Hilal’s current roster includes notable players such as Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly, Brazilian star Neymar, and Serbian international Aleksandar Mitrović.
The addition of Bennacer would further bolster their already impressive lineup.
Bennacer’s contract with AC Milan includes a release clause of €50 million, a sum that Saudi clubs are reportedly willing to meet.
The Saudi Pro League has been attracting numerous high-profile players recently, enhancing its competitive level and appeal.
Despite the lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, Bennacer’s primary aspiration is to play in the English Premier League.
However, there has been no concrete interest from Premier League clubs as of now.
Bennacer’s potential move to Saudi Arabia raises questions about his career trajectory.
While moving to the Saudi Pro League at a relatively young age might seem unconventional, the league’s quality has significantly improved with the influx of international stars.
Additionally, playing in Saudi Arabia would not hinder Bennacer’s chances of national team selection, given the league’s growing stature.
The final decision on Bennacer’s future may rest with Paulo Fonseca, who is set to replace Stefano Pioli as AC Milan’s head coach.
Fonseca’s opinion will likely influence whether Bennacer stays at Milan or pursues a new opportunity in Saudi Arabia.
Ismaël Bennacer’s potential move to Saudi Arabia reflects the evolving dynamics of global football transfers.
While he dreams of playing in the Premier League, the immediate interest from Saudi clubs presents a lucrative and competitive alternative.
As discussions continue, Bennacer’s next steps will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
🚨 @AlfredoPedulla: “#Bennacer non è più intoccabile in Casa #Milan. E probabilmente anche lui si sente pronto per un’esperienza lontano dalla #SerieA. Come vi abbiamo anticipato nella giornata di ieri c’è stato un incontro tra il suo entourage ed emissari in rappresentanza di… pic.twitter.com/o5YeSuMh4G
— ACMilanInside (@ACMilanInside_) June 29, 2024
