Olympique de Marseille have resumed negotiations with AC Milan over a potential return for Algerian midfielder Ismaël Bennacer, despite earlier reports suggesting an imminent move to Qatar.
Bennacer, who joined Marseille on loan from Milan during the January transfer window, failed to leave a lasting impression during his short stint at the Stade Vélodrome.
Limited by injury setbacks and a lack of consistency, the 26-year-old managed just 12 appearances, prompting OM to decline the opportunity to activate his purchase option.
Despite this, Marseille have not completely shut the door on the player.
According to multiple sources, the Ligue 1 club has reinitiated contact with Milan in an attempt to bring Bennacer back under revised financial terms.
The nature of the discussions remains undisclosed, but it is understood that Marseille are exploring a deal that would lower the cost of a permanent move.
Over the weekend, speculation intensified that Bennacer was on the verge of joining Qatari side Al Duhail.
Some outlets reported that the midfielder had undergone a medical at the renowned Aspetar Sports Hospital in Doha, with a €15 million transfer said to be on the verge of completion.
Those rumours, however, were swiftly quashed.
While Bennacer was indeed in Qatar, his presence had nothing to do with transfer formalities.
Instead, it was clarified that the Algerian international had travelled to Doha for a personalised fitness programme as part of his preparations for the upcoming season.
The midfielder’s future remains uncertain, with AC Milan reportedly open to offers as they look to reshape their midfield.
Marseille, still evaluating their summer transfer options, appear willing to give Bennacer another chance, provided the terms are favourable.
With the summer window now in full swing, both clubs will be weighing their options carefully.
Bennacer, who has previously impressed in Serie A and was a key figure in Algeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, may still have a future in European football—whether in Marseille or elsewhere.
