Chelsea transfer blow as ‘AC Milan look to tie down Ismael Bennacer to new long-term contract’

CHELSEA have been dealt a transfer blow with AC Milan reportedly trying to tie Ismael Bennacer down to a new long-term contract.

The 25-year-old holding midfielder is attracting plenty of attention by shining in the base of Milan's midfield.

However, as one of the first names on Stefano Pioli's team sheet at the San Siro, the club are desperate to keep him.

And according to , negotiations started a few months ago regarding an extension.

Bennacer's current deal runs until the summer of 2024 - just 18 months away.

Talks were put on hold when the Rossoneri changed hands.

However, the club have received fresh hope with Bennacer signing with a new agent, Enzo Raiola, six weeks after ditching his former rep.

Bennacer's £42million release clause expired in the summer for the player described as one of the key leaders on and off the pitch.

It is understood he has previously rejected an offer worth £50,000 per week - because he wants to at least double his current £28,000 weekly wages.

And with both player and club keen to get a deal done, it comes as a stinging blow to Bennacer's Premier League admirers.

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Chelsea are interested with N'Golo Kante and Jorignho's futures unclear while Manchester United have also been linked with the man who spent two years on Arsenal's books but made zero appearances between 2015 and 2017.

Liverpool, meanwhile, continue to be linked with a move for the 44-cap Algeria ace.