Marseille are reportedly looking into the possibility of bringing Ismael Bennacer back to France next season, but have hit a stumbling block over AC Milan’s buy-option.
Will Marseille Sign Ismael Bennacer?
The Algerian midfielder joined Marseille on loan during the 2025 January transfer window, ending a six-year spell at the San Siro and endured a mixed experience in France.
His decision to leave the Italian side came after a reported fall-out with Sergio Conceicao, which stemmed from a heated confrontation at half-time during Milan’s 1-1 draw against Inter.
This led to a deadline day rush which saw Bennacer push for a move to Marseille, where he was taken under Roberto De Zerbi’s wing and the midfielder enjoyed a strong start in France.
Bennacer was immediately put into the starting eleven for his opening five matches in Ligue 1, winning three of these and playing a minimum of 60 minutes each time.
However, the Algerian missed Marseille’s clash against Paris Saint-Germain, who are favorites to win the Champions League again next season on new betting sites, and this signaled a slight issue with Bennacer, who has dealt with several injuries in the past.
Despite this, the Marseille manager is reportedly a big fan of the AC Milan midfielder and is looking to add the Algeria international to his side again next season.
However, when the two clubs agreed the initial deal there was a buy-option for around $13.7m, but this was not an obligation and Marseille are reportedly unwilling to pay the fee.
This is primarily down to Bennacer’s struggles with injuries, however, the French side are interested in resigning the Algerian on loan for the 2025/26 campaign.
Does Massimiliano Allegri Want To Keep Bennacer?
AC Milan made a huge decision at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, as they parted ways with Sergio Conceicao following an underwhelming performance.
This led to the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri who will enter his second spell at the San Siro, where he won his first league title in 2010/2011.
Allegri’s appointment could play a huge part in Bennacer’s future in Milan because as we previously mentioned, the Algerian’s main reasoning for leaving Italy was down to a fall-out with the previous manager.
Milan will be looking to bolster their midfield this summer after Tijjani Reijnders left the club to join Manchester City and Allegri could reintroduce Bennacer to the squad.
At this current moment in time, it is unclear whether Allegri wants to bring Bennacer back or add his own names from elsewhere in the summer transfer window.
There could be a huge shake-up at the club after a poor season and appointing a new manager, with the likes of Santiago Gimenez being tipped to leave Milan this summer.
One man that is almost certain to be joining the club this summer is Real Madrid legend, Luka Modric, who is edging closer to completing a move to Milan and the Croatian would be a huge addition to their midfield roster.
