Arsenal's long-term pursuits of Youri Tielemans and Mykhaylo Mudryk have prompted much transfer speculation to emerge over possible alternatives to the duo that the Gunners could sign. The latest link to a midfielder as a possible transfer acquisition instead of Tielemans comes in the form of AC Milan star Ismael Bennacer.
Reports from a few days ago indicated that Arsenal were preparing a "super offer" for Bennacer in the January transfer window that would also include a first-team star going the other way. Despite his commanding performances in midfield, Thomas Partey was the name mentioned as a possible departure for Bennacer.
CalcioMercatoWeb were the providers of the report claiming that interest was intensifying as the Gunners prepare a "super offer" of £17million in cash as well as Partey.
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Bennacer has been a pivotal part of the Milan midfield in their recent domestic successes after joining the club in 2019, just two years after leaving Arsenal having made one senior appearance.
In an interview with Goal, Bennacer opened up on his time at Arsenal explaining some of the reasons why the move did not work which included problems with his living situation and the position Arsene Wenger opted to deploy him in.
Now, the 24-year-old is in his desired position in the centre of midfield and his performances this season have prompted the Gunners interest once again after they eyed a potential summer transfer.
The Italian Giants don't seem to be intent on losing one of their most important players though as CalcioMercato are reporting the reigning Serie A champions are willing to double the Algerian international’s salary in order to keep him at Milan.
Bennacer's current deal expires in 2024 and an extension being signed, which would likely make the former Gunners star one of the clubs highest-paid players, would likely indicate to Edu and Mikel Arteta that their efforts to sign a new midfielder would be best used elsewhere.
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