AC Milan struggling to extend Ismael Bennacer’s contract amid Premier League interest

While AC Milan are focused on the renewal of Rafael Leao, they are simultaneously working on the contract extension of Ismael Bennacer.

The Algerian midfielder has grown into one of the top midfielders in Serie A since moving to San Siro from Empoli in 2019.

The 24-year-old has been a pivotal figure in Rossoneri’s resurgence under Stefano Pioli, winning the Scudetto last season.

Milan are looking to extend the stay of Bennacer, whose current deal expires in the summer of 2024.

However, they have hit a stumbling block, with top European clubs tracking his situation.

Tuttomercatoweb claims that an unnamed club from Premier League have tabled an offer for the Algerian international.

It is added that the anonymous suitors are willing to provide him with a salary of €4 million per season, higher than Milan have planned (€3.5m).

Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea have been credited with an interest in Bennacer. They have the financial power to prise Bennacer away from San Siro.

Nonetheless, Milan want to keep hold of him, and they are looking to resume talks in the coming weeks.

The Serie A champions have already extended the contracts of Sandro Tonali and Rade Krunic.

Leao’s future continues to be the subject of speculation, with Milan struggling to find a breakthrough in the contract talks.

The Portuguese forward’s current deal expires in the summer of 2024, and European heavyweights including Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester United are keen on his signature.

The 23-year-old is expecting a pay rise of around €8m per season, whereas Milan have proposed €6m.