Olympique de Marseille revive Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer pursuit amid Adrien Rabiot swap talks

Olympique de Marseille have reopened talks with AC Milan over a potential deal for Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer, just weeks after the midfielder ended his loan spell with the French club.

According to Sky Sports, Marseille’s management have reignited their interest in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations winner, with discussions now taking a surprising twist.

Sources suggest negotiations could involve a swap deal with Adrien Rabiot, whose future at the club has been thrown into doubt.

Bennacer, 26, left a strong impression during his time at the Stade Vélodrome, and Marseille are keen to bring him back on a permanent basis.

His technical vision, ball recovery and ability to dictate tempo make him a player highly valued by head coach and directors alike.

Talks with Milan have been described as serious, with both sides exploring formulas that could accelerate a deal.

At the centre of discussions is Adrien Rabiot. The French midfielder’s position at Marseille has deteriorated following what has been reported as a major internal conflict, leaving him out of the coaching staff’s plans.

The situation has pushed the club to consider a player exchange that could provide a solution on both sporting and diplomatic fronts.

While no final agreement has been reached, insiders believe the urgency around Rabiot’s departure could hasten Bennacer’s return.

A source close to the negotiations told Sky Sports: The urgency to get rid of Rabiot could lead OM to conclude the arrival of Ismaël Bennacer very quickly.

Bennacer, who played a key role in Algeria’s continental triumph in 2019, has already attracted attention across Europe during his time in Serie A with Milan.

For Marseille, however, his familiarity with the club, combined with his versatility in midfield, makes him an appealing target as they attempt to stabilise their squad during a delicate summer rebuild.

The potential deal highlights the balancing act facing Marseille’s management.

On one hand, they aim to strengthen the team with a proven international performer; on the other, they must resolve the Rabiot issue without destabilising the dressing room.

For now, negotiations remain ongoing, and while nothing has been finalised, the possibility of Bennacer’s return to the Commanderie has given supporters renewed hope that the club can reinforce its midfield with a player capable of adding both balance and creativity.