Milan hope to sell Bennacer to fund transfer strategy | OneFootball

It is looking increasingly likely that Milan will sell Ismael Bennacer to one of several interested clubs in Saudi Arabia to help fund their transfer campaign.

There had already been suggestions over the last couple of weeks of an approach from several clubs, including Al-Hilal.

According to Sportitalia and Calciomercato.com, a four-hour summit was held this week with Bennacer’s entourage to discuss the various options.

The 26-year-old had been a key figure in the Milan midfield until a serious knee injury, so while he managed 25 appearances this season, they were well below his previous standards.

Bennacer can fund Milan striker search

The Rossoneri hope to get around €50m from the sale of the Algeria international, the same as the release clause.

Once that was brought in, they could then reinvest the sum in signing at least one new striker to replace Olivier Giroud.

As we’ve reported extensively, Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee has agreed personal terms and the €40m release clause can be activated, but Milan are point-blank refusing to pay the €15m commission demanded by agent Kia Joorabchian.

Until they make a decision on that issue, Zirkzee will remain potentially open to other offers, including Manchester United and Arsenal.