In a recent report, Calciomercato mentioned that Chelsea have set their sights on AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer. It has been revealed that the Blues are eyeing a move for the Algerian talent who is yet to pen a new deal with the Milan giants despite his current deal expiring in the summer of 2024.
Bennacer’s Impressive Form In Italian Football This Season
Bennacer has made a decent start to this campaign as he has been responsible for putting in a few impressive displays at the centre of AC Milan’s midfield. The 24-year-old has scored one goal in nine matches for his current employers this season in multiple competitions.
The Algerian sensation has given a good account of himself by averaging 1.9 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 0.6 shots, 2.9 key passes, 1.4 crosses and 1.4 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A football. He has even been accurate when interchanging possession from midfield, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 88.8% in the top tier of Italian football (stats via whoscored).
Bennacer will be on an expiring contract next summer. Thus, it makes sense for the Blues to make an attempt to sign him at the end of this campaign, especially if the player decides not to pen a new deal with AC Milan by then.
Is Bennacer The Right Fit For Chelsea?
Bennacer is a solid tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team at the centre of the park. He has got the eye to play a decisive pass in the opposition half and can also make some decent runs with the ball from midfield. The Algerian sensation usually plays as a holding midfielder but can also play as a box-to-box midfielder or in the number ten position if needed.
Recruiting someone of Bennacer’s skillset could be a good move for Chelsea as they have got an ageing midfield with both N’Golo Kante and Jorginho in their 30s.
Hence, the AC Milan sensation could be a good fit for the Blues as he is good enough to make an instant impact at Stamford Bridge.
At 24, Bennacer will only get better in the coming seasons and could inject more energy and creativity into Chelsea‘s midfield department. Thus, Graham Potter should think about making a move for the Algerian talent next summer as he will help the West London club compete for some major trophies over the next few years.
