Liverpool have been linked with plenty of potential new midfielders over the past few months.
The summer transfer window saw endless players seemingly on the Reds ’ radar to strengthen in the middle of the park. However, in the end only one deal got over the line.
Arthur Melo was signed on loan from Juventus despite the fact his name did not emerge until deadline day. However, one player who was linked on and off throughout the summer was Ismael Bennacer.
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The AC Milan talent was credited as a potential target for Liverpool. But while nothing ever materialised, the Algeria international is being linked with a move to Anfield once again.
According to SportMediaset, via Milan Reports , the Reds are prepared to offer Bennacer a deal in either January or next summer. It comes against the backdrop of the 24-year-old discussing a new contract with Milan.
It has been reported that Bennacer currently earns €1.7m per season, with the player’s agent seeking an increase that would see that number rise to €4m per year. The report states that Liverpool are willing to meet those demands. Bennacer’s deal at Milan runs out in the summer of 2024.
Further reports in Calciomercato have claimed that Chelsea are also interested in signing the one-time Arsenal youngster. They also state that Milan would not sell the player for anything less than between €40m and €50m (£35m and £45m).
Milan’s chief executive, Ivan Gazidis, has spoken about Bennacer and his abilities in a new interview. Gazidis, who was at Arsenal for nine years until he left in 2018 to take on his current role in Milan, told The Times : “Today, he is one of our most important players and one of the best prospects in the world in his defensive midfield position.”
Bennacer signed for Milan in 2019 from fellow Italian club Empoli, who had just been relegated to Serie B that summer. He cost €18m (£16m) including add-ons.
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