Arsenal linked with activating buyback clause on midfielder

Arsenal are reportedly interested in re-signing midfielder Ismael Bennacer from Empoli.

The 21-year-old left Arsenal in August 2017 after two years with the club, but the Gunners are interested in bringing the player back, according to Le10Sport.

The report from the French outlet appeared on April 11, but the story has hit the nationals today with the Daily Mirror picking up the story.

The French source report that Arsenal have a buyback clause on Bennacer, who left for an undisclosed fee, and may look to bring him back as they look to strengthen their midfield with Aaron Ramsey heading for Juventus.

Bennacer has made 31 Serie A appearances this term, grabbing four assists – on the back on 39 games in Serie B last season as Empoli were promoted.

The central midfielder has been capped eight times by Algeria and Napoli are understood to be chasing Bennacer’s signature.

The youngster grew up in France and represented them at youth level before switching allegiance to Algeria.

Bennacer made his only first-team appearance for Arsenal against Sheffield Wednesday in the League Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday in 2015.