Beşiktaş target Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer as midfielder eyes fresh challenge

Ismaël Bennacer is emerging as a sought-after name in this summer’s transfer window, with Turkish giants Beşiktaş leading the race to secure the Algerian international’s signature.

According to Africafoot, the AC Milan midfielder has attracted firm interest from the Istanbul-based club, while a Russian side—whose identity remains undisclosed—has also made inquiries about his availability and current fitness status.

Bennacer, who joined AC Milan in 2019 from Empoli, appears ready to close the chapter on his five-year stint with the Rossoneri.

The 26-year-old is understood to be eager for a new challenge where he can regain a prominent role and enjoy regular playing time after a frustrating 2024/25 season plagued by injuries and reduced involvement in Milan’s starting line-up.

Contracted at the San Siro until June 2027, Bennacer’s situation has not gone unnoticed across Europe and beyond.

Besides Beşiktaş, clubs in Russia and Saudi Arabia have been monitoring his progress, with conversations already taking place regarding his transfer conditions, salary demands, and physical recovery.

Despite a difficult recent campaign, Bennacer’s reputation as one of Africa’s most complete midfielders remains intact.

His blend of technical proficiency, tactical intelligence, and ball-winning abilities made him a pivotal figure in Milan’s 2021/22 Serie A title-winning side, their first Scudetto in over a decade.

Since his arrival in Italy, Bennacer has featured in 105 Serie A matches, contributing three goals and five assists, often orchestrating play from deep and dictating tempo.

The player’s desire to seek a fresh start is shared by those close to him.

Why not Al Ittihad for Bennacer? remarked Nasser Sandjak, reflecting on the possibilities that lie ahead for the midfielder.

However, Turkey currently seems a more concrete destination, with Beşiktaş keen to bolster their midfield with his experience and composure.

Bennacer’s professional journey began in France, where he came through the ranks at Arles-Avignon before joining Arsenal in 2015.

Though his opportunities in North London were limited, loan spells, most notably at Tours FC, allowed him to flourish.

His breakout came with Empoli, where his performances caught the attention of AC Milan.

Now at a pivotal point in his career, Bennacer faces a critical decision on his next move.

With Beşiktaş eager to bring him to Istanbul and other offers potentially on the table, the coming weeks will be decisive in determining where the Algerian playmaker will ply his trade next season.