Pranav Kannan
AC Milan director confirms contract renewal for Manchester United target Ismael Bennacer
Speaking in an interview with Mediaset as quoted by popular Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, AC Milan director Paolo Maldini has confirmed that Algerian midfielder Ismael Bennacer will renew his deal with the Italian club.
Manchester United have been linked with a move for the talented defensive midfielder for quite some time now. However, claims of a renewal being agreed on the player’s part with AC Milan has seen such links die down.
Bennacer’s existing deal with AC Milan was set to expire in 2024 (Transfermarkt). This made him a very viable prospect for clubs who were interested in him considering the quality and the experience that he brings to the table.
The 25-year-old midfielder has been with the Rossoneri since 2019. His performances for the Italian club have caught the eye. In many ways, he is still very underrated and does not get the kind of acknowledgement that he deserves.
A key component in Stefano Pioli’s well-oiled machine, Bennacer might not be the first name on the team sheet but he is almost always useful off the bench and has quite an impact in the games that he comes on.
Although predominantly a defensive midfielder, Bennacer can play anywhere in midfield and it is this kind of versatility that makes the Algerian an appealing option for many top clubs around the world. If nothing, the 25-year-old will be great squad depth.
Six months ago, losing out on Bennacer would have been seen as another opportunity lost for Man United. For many seasons now, the Red Devils have struggled to find a quality player in the defensive midfield position.
However, that is no longer the case. The arrival of Casemiro has changed Man United so much. The Brazilian destroyer has arguably been one of the signings of the season so far and is key to how Erik ten Hag’s team play.
More Manchester United News
- Inter Milan ‘willing to consider’ January exit for Denzel Dumfries amidst Manchester United links
- Manchester United to introduce ‘Ronaldo rule’ to limit wage cap
- Brandon Williams looking to prove himself to Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag
The former Real Madrid man has quickly established himself as one of the first names on the Man United team sheet. Thanks to him, losing out on Bennacer is not going to hurt us after all.
