Algeria international Ismael Bennacer is on the verge of ending his six-year spell at AC Milan, with reports indicating he has agreed to join Qatar Stars League side Al Gharafa.
The 28-year-old midfielder is expected to begin a new chapter in Qatar after reaching personal terms with the club, bringing to a close a successful period in Serie A.
According to reports, Bennacer will terminate his contract with Milan by mutual consent before completing the move, despite having a deal that runs until June 2027. The agreement would allow him to join Al Gharafa as a free agent.
Successful spell at San Siro
Bennacer joined AC Milan from Empoli in 2019 and quickly established himself as one of the Rossoneri’s most important midfielders.
Renowned for his composure on the ball, tactical intelligence and relentless work rate, the Algeria international played a key role in Milan’s resurgence under Stefano Pioli.
He was instrumental in the club’s 2021/22 Serie A title triumph, helping Milan end an 11-year wait for the Scudetto, while also contributing to their return to the UEFA Champions League.
Fresh challenge in Qatar
Injuries have limited Bennacer’s playing time over the past two seasons, but he remains one of Algeria’s leading midfielders and an important figure for the Desert Foxes.
A move to Al Gharafa offers the experienced midfielder the opportunity to continue his career in the rapidly growing Qatar Stars League, which has attracted an increasing number of established international players in recent years.