Ismaël Bennacer appears increasingly likely to leave AC Milan this summer, with Fiorentina exploring the possibility of offering the Algerian midfielder a new home in Serie A.
AC Milan are undergoing a period of transition following a season that failed to meet expectations, including the disappointment of missing out on European qualification.
As part of their restructuring, the club’s hierarchy is looking to trim its squad and reduce wage expenses, and Bennacer’s future has become a key point of discussion.
According to Tutto Mercato Web, the 26-year-old no longer features prominently in the plans of returning head coach Massimiliano Allegri.
While the club still values Bennacer’s quality, they are reportedly open to a sale—but will not entertain offers below their valuation.
Bennacer spent the latter half of the previous campaign on loan at Olympique de Marseille, but the spell in Ligue 1 did not go as hoped.
Under the guidance of Roberto De Zerbi, the Algerian failed to convince, leading Marseille to pass on activating the €12 million buy option attached to the loan deal.
This lack of clarity over his next step has left Bennacer at a crossroads, with options narrowing within European football.
However, interest from outside the continent has intensified.
Saudi Arabia’s top division, the ROSHN League, has emerged as a serious alternative.
Al-Hilal, now coached by Simone Inzaghi, is said to be particularly keen on the Milan midfielder.
The club, which already boasts Bennacer’s former Rossoneri teammate Théo Hernandez, is reportedly prepared to table a lucrative offer that could tempt the player into a switch to the Gulf.
Yet, despite the financial appeal of a Saudi move, Serie A may not be entirely out of the picture.
Fiorentina have identified Bennacer as a potential reinforcement and are monitoring the situation closely.
However, the Tuscan side face a significant hurdle in the form of Bennacer’s €4 million annual salary, a figure that sits above their current wage structure.
As the transfer window unfolds, Bennacer’s future remains unresolved, with Milan prepared to part ways, suitors abroad circling, and domestic interest mounting.
Whether his next destination will be the glamour of the Gulf or a new chapter in Italy remains to be seen.
