Arsenal ready to swap wonderkid to bring back former midfielder

Suraj Radia

• 19 Mar 2023 11:52 GMT
• 2 min read

Arsenal are looking to strengthen in midfield this summer and they could target one of their former players after reports that they are ‘serious’ in their pursuit for Ismael Bennacer.

Bennacer spent two years with the Gunners as a teenager and played just once in the League Cup before joining Italian side Empoli in 2017 and eventually Milan in 2019.

The Algerian has progressed significantly since his time in North London and recently signed a new four-year deal with Milan after establishing himself as a pivotal member of their first team.

BATTLE: Arsenal fighting with Man City for midfielder

Italian outlet calciomercatoweb claims Arsenal have identified Bennacer as a long-term option in midfield, having signed a similar player in Jorginho in January.

The report also states that Arsenal are willing to offer cash plus Folarin Balogun, the 21-year-old who has excelled on loan at Reims this season.

The offer could be ‘very tempting’ for Milan given the uncertain future of forward Rafael Leao, meaning they could be willing to part ways with a crucial player to Arsenal.

Bennacer could offer cheaper alternative to top Arsenal targets

Arsenal are believed to want up to two midfielders this summer, with the likes of Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny having a host of injury concerns and approaching their thirties.

Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo are believed to be Arsenal’s top two targets but both players could cost in excess of £70 million each, meaning the Gunners may look for cheaper alternatives.

A deep-lying playmaker capable of contributing to all phases of play, Bennacer is a player who would suit Mikel Arteta’s playstyle and represent a natural successor to Granit Xhaka and Jorginho.

Bennacer is believed to have a release clause in his contract worth €50m but Arsenal could offer Balogun in order to lower the fee, a move which would raise eyebrows considering the striker’s form in France this season.

EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal to reject Balogun bids

Balogun has scored 16 goals for Reims but seemingly faces an uncertain future at Arsenal, with his contract set to expire in 2025 and the Gunners considering cashing in while his value is high.