Algerian international Ismaël Bennacer has re-emerged at the centre of transfer speculation, with uncertainty surrounding his future at AC Milan intensifying ahead of the summer window.
Recent reports suggest the Italian club are preparing for significant squad changes and no longer view the midfielder as part of their long-term plans. As a result, Bennacer’s time with the Rossoneri appears to be drawing to a close, with a permanent departure increasingly likely in the coming months.
The 27-year-old is currently on loan at Dinamo Zagreb, where he has recently returned to action after nearly a month on the sidelines due to injury. However, his short-term comeback has done little to clarify his long-term prospects. The Croatian club are reportedly unconvinced about activating the clause to sign him permanently from AC Milan.
Bennacer made a substitute appearance as Dinamo Zagreb secured the Croatian league title for the 2025–2026 season, marking the fourth trophy of his career. Despite that achievement, concerns remain over his physical condition following a series of injuries that have limited his impact this season.
His struggles are reflected in limited playing time, having featured for just 91 minutes since the start of 2026. That lack of involvement has contributed to hesitation from Dinamo Zagreb’s management, who now appear unlikely to pursue a full transfer.
With the loan period nearing its conclusion, Bennacer is expected to return briefly to Milan before the club makes a definitive decision on his future. Current indications point towards a sale during the upcoming transfer window, as Milan reshape their squad.
Amid this uncertainty, interest in the Algerian midfielder is growing elsewhere. Several clubs in the Gulf region have begun exploring a move, viewing the situation as an opportunity to secure an experienced player seeking stability.
Saudi side Al-Qadisiyah are understood to be leading the race, targeting Bennacer as a midfielder capable of delivering immediate impact. They are joined by Neom SC, who have shown increasing ambition in the transfer market and are building a competitive squad for the coming season.
Qatar’s Al Sadd have also been monitoring developments closely and are expected to formalise their interest in the near future.
While transfer discussions intensify, Bennacer remains focused on regaining match fitness. With four rounds left in the Croatian league season, he is seeking more playing time to rebuild his rhythm after an extended injury layoff.
This effort carries additional importance as he looks to secure his place in the Algerian national team. With the 2026 World Cup scheduled for June and July, Bennacer is aiming to convince head coach Vladimir Petkovic that he is ready to return to peak form.
The coming weeks are likely to prove decisive for the midfielder, as he balances the need to rediscover his fitness with the challenge of determining the next step in his career. His situation reflects both the volatility of professional football and the high stakes involved in maintaining form at the elite level.
