Man Utd wait to pounce as Milan hold firm with €50m price for midfield star
Manchester United are pressing ahead in the race for former Arsenal midfielder Ismael Bennacer, according to reports in his homeland.
Bennacer has revived his career in Italy since leaving Arsenal in 2017. The Algerian earned a move to AC Milan last summer after impressing for Empoli over the prior two years.
While his previous time in England brought just one substitute appearance, Bennacer could be ready for another crack at the Premier League.
The midfielder has been linked with both Manchester clubs, United and City. And according to Algerian source Competition, it is the former who are getting serious about Bennacer.
A report from them claims that United are “waiting for the green light” from Milan to make a move. However, they are playing catch-up, as Paris Saint-Germain have already made contact with his representatives.
PSG have reportedly put €40m on the table, but Milan are holding out for €50m. The player is aware of the interest, though, with the Parisians set to offer a big salary to convince him into signing a five-year deal.
United are keeping tabs on the situation, though – with the report also mentioning City’s interest. Real Madrid are another potential suitor for the 22-year-old.
BENNACER COMMENTS ON INTEREST
Last month, Bennacer admitted that he was just focusing on on-field matters, rather than transfer speculation.
Amid talk of interest from United, he told Le Buteur at the time: “I am not aware of anything. I just give everything on the pitch. I work and I am at the service of Milan.
“I am focused on my club where I am very happy. The interest of the big clubs, however, honours me.”
Bennacer continued his resurgent rise to prominence last summer, when he won the African Cup of Nations as player of the tournament with Algeria.
His value has increased drastically since Arsenal let him go for just €1m in 2017 – with the €50m price tag a clear warning message to potential new suitors. However, it’s a value that Milan will have to consider if such an offer arrives.