Ismaël Bennacer’s potential return to Ligue 1 has gathered momentum, with reports from the French media suggesting Olympique de Marseille are preparing a renewed bid to secure the AC Milan midfielder.
The development follows confirmation that Valentin Rongier has declined to extend his current contract and will depart the club.
The decision has left Marseille seeking a high-calibre replacement in midfield, with Bennacer emerging as the leading candidate due to his familiarity with French football and proven quality in Europe.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Marseille are now fully focused on reigniting talks with AC Milan over the Algerian international, whose profile fits the club’s immediate sporting requirements.
A formal offer is expected to be submitted in the coming days, with club officials hopeful of reaching a deal before the transfer window intensifies.
Bennacer, 26, has endured a mixed spell in Serie A, with injuries interrupting a promising trajectory.
However, his technical ability, composure under pressure, and versatility in midfield remain highly valued — particularly in a Marseille side now preparing for life without Rongier, their long-serving captain.
The urgency surrounding Rongier’s exit has sharpened Marseille’s intentions.
The 29-year-old, who joined OM in 2019 from Nantes, reportedly turned down several extension offers before deciding to seek a new challenge elsewhere.
His departure leaves a leadership void and a tactical gap in the midfield engine room — one the Marseille board believes Bennacer is capable of filling seamlessly.
Bennacer began his senior career in France with AC Arles-Avignon before moving to Arsenal and later establishing himself in Italy.
His previous Ligue 1 experience and connection to French football are viewed as additional assets as Marseille seek stability and experience in a summer of transition.
While AC Milan have yet to make their position public, Marseille’s improved proposal may be enough to open the door to negotiations, particularly if the Italian club are open to reshaping their midfield options ahead of next season.
Should the deal materialise, it would mark a significant acquisition for Marseille — not only replacing Rongier’s presence but also reinforcing their ambitions both domestically and in Europe.
For now, all eyes are on the talks set to unfold in the days ahead.
