Glazers plotting MUFC bid for "unbelievable" £38m talent, he "dominates in the middle" - opinion

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer this summer, and the Algerian could be a superb addition to Erik ten Hag’s squad at Old Trafford.

According to reports from Spain (via Calciomercato), the Red Devils are considering a move for the 24-year-old, who was one of Stefano Pioli’s top performers last season as they won Serie A.

The report also claims that Donny van de Beek has been proposed to Milan in a potential swap deal after a difficult spell at Old Trafford, although you would expect that Ten Hag would want to give the Dutchman more of a chance after he starred under the new United boss at Ajax.

After losing Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic and Juan Mata so far this summer, midfield reinforcements are a must for Ten Hag ahead of the new Premier League season.

Christian Eriksen has already arrived on a free transfer, but the Red Devils are arguably still lacking a tough-tackling defensive midfielder who is equally adept in possession, and they could find an ideal candidate for Ten Hag’s preferred style of play in Bennacer.

Last season saw the 24-year-old rank above the 90th percentile in dribbling, progressive passes, tackling and interceptions when compared with other midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues, which emphasises his ability both with and without the ball.

WhoScored also suggests that his main strengths are passing and tackling, so he could be the ideal man to fill Matic’s shoes at Old Trafford, especially if Fred and Scott McTominay are deemed not good enough by Ten Hag.

Bennacer, who was described as “absolutely unbelievable” by journalist Sam Tighe, has made 105 appearances during his time at the San Siro, contributing three goals and seven assists.

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