Ismael Bennacer to end AC Milan stay and join Al Gharafa as free agent

Ismael Bennacer is set to terminate his contract with AC Milan by mutual consent and sign for Qatari side Al Gharafa on a free transfer in the coming hours, according to reports in Italy.

The Algeria international, 28, is preparing to bring his time at San Siro to a close before completing a move to the Qatar Stars League as a free agent.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reported that all parties have reached a verbal agreement for Bennacer’s departure from Milan and subsequent switch to Al Gharafa, with only the official announcement still to come.

Romano says the decision was reached amicably, with Milan and Bennacer agreeing to end his existing deal early to allow the midfielder to continue his career in the Gulf.

Challenging spell in Europe

Bennacer’s exit comes after a difficult season in which he was loaned out by Milan in an effort to revive his form and secure more regular game time away from San Siro.

The Algerian spent the campaign on temporary deals at Olympique de Marseille in France and Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia, moves designed to help him regain rhythm and showcase his abilities after struggling to establish himself in the Italian club’s plans.

Despite those loans, Bennacer was unable to convince Milan’s coaching staff that he should be a long-term part of their midfield options, prompting the search for a new challenge.

Move to Qatar

His switch to Al Gharafa marks the end of what the article describes as a stuttering spell with Milan, where he did not fully cement a consistent role under the technical staff.

The move also reflects the growing ambition of the Qatar Stars League, which has increasingly targeted players with European experience to raise the competition’s profile and standard.

Bennacer, who has been a regular for Algeria at international level, is expected to bring top-level European and international know-how to Al Gharafa’s midfield once the deal is formally completed.

The agreement will see Milan part company with the player without a transfer fee, while Al Gharafa secure a high-profile signing on a free, subject to the final paperwork and official confirmation from the clubs involved.