Ismael Bennacer: Al Gharafa step up move for AC Milan midfielder after Al Shamal talks collapse

Al Gharafa have moved into pole position to sign AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer, with the Qatari club accelerating talks after the collapse of the Algerian international’s proposed switch to Al Shamal.

Negotiations between Bennacer and Al Shamal broke down over disagreements concerning specific contract clauses, opening the door for Al Gharafa to push strongly for the 26-year-old’s signature. The Doha-based side are now leading the race to secure a deal for the Algeria international.

According to journalist Ekrem Konur, Al Gharafa’s hierarchy have significantly intensified contacts in recent days in an effort to bring the transfer to a conclusion. Discussions are described as progressing positively, with an agreement between all parties now said to be within reach.

Contract termination key to finalising deal

The main obstacle remaining before any move can be completed concerns the terms of Bennacer’s departure from AC Milan. Talks are continuing over how to resolve the conditions of his contract with the Serie A club.

Bennacer is under contract with AC Milan until 30 June 2027, and the parties are working to find a mutually acceptable formula to terminate that deal. Only once those details are settled will Al Gharafa be able to finalise and announce his arrival.

If the remaining issues are resolved swiftly, Bennacer’s move to Al Gharafa could be made official in the coming days.

Market value and salary details

The midfielder, a key figure for Algeria and a winner of the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019, is currently valued at €8m by Transfermarkt.

Bennacer’s existing annual salary is €7,040,000, equivalent to 4,576,000,000 CFA francs, underlining the financial scale of any agreement required to take him from AC Milan to the Qatar Stars League.

While no fee, contract length or salary terms with Al Gharafa have been disclosed at this stage, the club are pushing to conclude negotiations and position themselves ahead of any potential late competition for the player’s services.