Fiorentina target Algerian midfielder Ismaël Bennacer in planned summer move

Fiorentina are reportedly preparing a summer move for Algerian midfielder Ismaël Bennacer as coach Stefano Pioli seeks a reunion with his former AC Milan player.

The Serie A side are said to have placed Bennacer high on their transfer shortlist ahead of the upcoming window, with Pioli believed to be a strong admirer of the midfielder’s qualities.

According to information, the Fiorentina manager is eager to work again with the Algerian international after previously coaching him at AC Milan.

The potential transfer could offer Bennacer a return to regular football in Italy following a difficult season disrupted by injuries and physical setbacks.

Despite those fitness problems, the 28-year-old still featured in 19 matches across all competitions during the campaign.

He scored one goal and provided two assists while continuing to demonstrate the technical qualities that have defined much of his career.

Bennacer has long been recognised for his passing ability, vision and composure in midfield, qualities that reportedly continue to appeal strongly to Pioli.

The Fiorentina coach worked closely with the Algerian during their time together at Milan and is understood to remain convinced of his value at the highest level.

The Italian club are reportedly exploring a transfer structure based on an initial loan deal that would include an obligation to buy.

Such an arrangement would allow Fiorentina to spread the financial cost of the operation while still securing the player’s services permanently in the future.

AC Milan, however, are believed to favour a direct permanent transfer instead.

The Rossoneri are reportedly aiming to reduce their wage commitments, with Bennacer among the higher earners in the squad.

The midfielder is said to receive an annual salary of €7.04 million, a figure that may influence negotiations between the two clubs.

As a result, discussions surrounding the structure of the transfer could become one of the key factors determining whether an agreement is eventually reached.

According to Transfermarkt, Bennacer currently holds an estimated market value of €9 million.

That valuation reflects a period affected by injuries but also recognises the player’s experience and technical profile developed over several seasons in Serie A.

Before joining AC Milan, Bennacer had already built familiarity with Italian football during his time at Empoli.

His performances there helped establish him as one of the promising midfielders in the league before earning a move to San Siro.

Since then, he has remained an important figure for both club and country when available for selection.

The possibility of joining Fiorentina would therefore represent another important chapter in his Serie A career.

For Pioli, securing the midfielder’s arrival could provide additional balance and technical quality within the squad as Fiorentina continue shaping their plans for the new season.

The coach’s previous relationship with Bennacer may also play a significant role in convincing the Algerian international to consider the move.

La Fiorentina s'intéresse Bennacer, à la demande expresse de son ancien entraîneur, Stefano Pioli.

Le club italien privilégie un prêt avec option d'achat obligatoire, tandis que le Milan AC souhaite le vendre définitivement pour se débarrasser de son salaire élevé@laviola_it pic.twitter.com/LFYHF0M0yQ

— Toufik Foot (@titu_footy) May 28, 2026

Their successful collaboration at Milan created a level of trust that could become valuable during transfer discussions.

At the same time, Milan’s desire to lower their wage bill may encourage the club to consider solutions during the transfer market.

Although Bennacer’s season was interrupted by physical difficulties, his qualities on the ball and experience at top level continue to attract interest.

The coming weeks are expected to clarify whether Fiorentina and Milan can find common ground regarding the terms of the deal.

For now, the main obstacle appears to concern the structure of the transfer rather than the player’s sporting profile.

If an agreement is reached, Bennacer could soon make a return to Serie A action under a coach who has already demonstrated strong confidence in his abilities.