One of Liverpool’s midfield targets has rejected a new contract amidst reported interest from the Reds – could they move before the window shuts?
Reports have claimed that AC Milan’s midfield general Ismael Bennacer has rejected a new deal from the club, demanding more money.
It could open the door to a potential move away this summer, with Liverpool in need of a midfield addition following their awful run of injuries at the start of this season.
A versatile, high-intensity and high-quality midfielder could be available and he could be exactly what Liverpool needs.
The hook that makes @acmilan click = @IsmaelBennacer 🇩🇿#SerieA #MilanUdinese pic.twitter.com/ZmYKaSojPj
— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) August 16, 2022
Latest reports on Bennacer
The latest news claims that Bennacer has rejected a contract from Milan – he’s still got two years left on his deal but he has emerged as a key player in this Milan side.
Calciomercato states that Moussa Sissoko, who represents Bennacer, told Milan that his client must receive a large increase on his reported salary of £33,500 per week in order to stay with Italians.
Earlier this month, CalcioMercatoWeb reported that the Anfield club were considering a €40M (£33.5M) bid for the star.
As a key player in his side, Milan will have to pay up but this breakdown in talks could lead to a move away unless the club is willing to front the money.
🥈| Liverpool are interested in AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer, who wants a salary increase if he is to extend his contract at the San Siro. [@LGDFennec] pic.twitter.com/x315u4KPEh
— Anfield Edition (@AnfieldEdition) August 16, 2022
How would he fit in at Liverpool?
A player who is predominantly a defensive midfielder could help Liverpool add some steel, quality and depth to their fracturing midfield roster.
His stats reveal a player who is highly adept defensively, ranking in the 92nd and 93rd percentile for tackles and interceptions, as well as being a progressive midfield player both in his ball-carrying and progressive passes.
He’s also a highly intense player – ranking in the 85th percentile for pressures – a key stat if you want to be a Jurgen Klopp player. His injury record is also solid, with no major injuries at 24 years old; he boasts experience at a younger age and would be a great addition no doubt.
It could allow Fabinho more rest time or even allow Klopp to utilise a 4-2-3-1 on more occasions. There’s no doubt he would be great addition.
