Marseille Close to Securing Bennacer Deal, Champions League Spot Key

Olympique de Marseille is reportedly prepared to exercise their €12 million option to permanently acquire Ismaël Bennacer from AC Milan following his successful loan spell. The French club has been impressed by the 27-year-old midfielder’s performances since his January arrival.

However, the official confirmation of the transfer is likely to be delayed until Marseille secures qualification for next season’s Champions League. The club has been in a fierce battle for a top-three finish in Ligue 1, which would guarantee their participation in Europe’s elite competition.

Despite spending much of the season as runners-up to Paris Saint-Germain, Marseille’s recent form has been concerning. They have suffered five losses in their last seven matches, including a 3-0 defeat to AS Monaco, which saw them slip from second place.

The team’s recent struggles have put their Champions League aspirations in jeopardy, adding an element of uncertainty to the Bennacer deal. Marseille will be keen to secure their European status in the remaining fixtures to not only boost their financial prospects but also to finalize the transfer of the talented Algerian international.