Report: Arsenal could have signed Ismael Bennacer for £14.4 million last summer

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal had a chance to re-sign Ismael Bennacer last summer for just €16 million (£14.4m), according to a report from Calciomercato. 

The Gunners snapped up the talented youngster from Arles-Avignon in 2015 but he left the club after just two years and one appearance. He joined Italian side Empoli and from there earned a move to AC Milan last summer. 

However, that is the point in which Arsenal could have signed him back. The Gunners, then managed by Unai Emery, had a first refusal option built into the deal for Bennacer. 

It meant that Arsenal could meet any transfer bid Empoli accepted for the player and that clause came into play after Milan’s move was confirmed. 

However, Arsenal reportedly decided not to make a move for the player who is now thriving at Milan. 

So much so in fact, that the Algerian is being linked with a big-money move in the near future. 

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is said to be a big fan of the midfield maestro and RMC Sport suggest that a €50 million (£45m) move could be possible either this summer or next. 

Bennacer has been in good form for Milan and the club’s CEO, former Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis told Gazzetta dello Sport recently that Bennacer can become a ‘top player’ for the club. 

Arsenal’s decision not to make a move for Bennacer last summer has clearly now come back to bite them.  

The Algerian is valued at nearly treble the amount that Arsenal could have paid for him last summer. Clearly, the Gunners made an error in regards to the talented midfielder and it looks increasingly likely they will be punished for it.