AC Milan Loans Ismael Bennacer to Marseille with Purchase Option

AC Milan has officially announced the loan of midfielder Ismael Bennacer to Olympique Marseille. The deal includes an option for Marseille to permanently acquire Bennacer at the conclusion of the season.

According to reports, the agreement involves a €1 million loan fee, with Marseille having the option to make the transfer permanent in July 2025 for an additional €12 million, plus potential bonuses of up to €3 million.

Bennacer, 27, originally joined Milan from Empoli in 2019 for €17.2 million. During his time with the Rossoneri, he made 178 appearances across all competitions, scoring 8 goals and providing 12 assists. The Algerian international played a key role in Milan’s Serie A title win and Supercoppa Italiana victory.

Born and raised in France, this move marks a return for Bennacer, who left for Arsenal’s youth academy in 2015 before establishing himself in Italy with Empoli and then Milan. His most notable achievement remains winning the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations with Algeria, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

To fill the gap left by Bennacer’s departure, Milan has acquired Warren Bondo from Monza in a permanent transfer worth €10 million plus add-ons. Additionally, Kevin Zeroli has joined Monza on loan from Milan.

Olympique Marseille has officially welcomed Bennacer to the club, expressing excitement about the midfielder’s arrival and potential impact on the team.