Arsenal have buy-back clause for ‘complete player’ Bennacer but are yet to show ‘concrete interest’ despite the midfielder’s stunning form
ARSENAL reportedly have a buy-back clause for Ismael Bennacer – but are yet to prove their interest in the midfielder.
The Algerian has emerged as a top target for the likes of Napoli and Lyon following his sublime spell of form for Empoli this season.
But according to Le10 Sport, Arsenal will be able to bring Bennacer back to London without facing any competition.
The 21-year-old joined the Gunners in 2015 before he was shipped out on loan to French club Tours and then sold to Empoli in 2017.
During his time in North London, he made just one senior appearance during a 3-0 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday in the League Cup.
But the source suggests that Unai Emery’s side are yet to show “concrete interest” in the Algeria international.
He has become a regular in Empoli’s first-team this season and has made 30 appearance in Serie A.
And surprisingly, Empoli president Fabrizio Corsi has admitted he is willing to sell him this summer.
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He said: “He has the quality to play for Napoli, Roma or Inter.
“He has great technique, but he’s also the player who wins back the most balls in Italy. He’s a complete player, who still has room for growth.
“I have a wonderful relationship with [Napoli chairman] Aurelio De Laurentiis and Cristiano Giuntoli and I’d gladly give him to them, but to date they’ve expressed only interest, nothing more.”