MD: Why Bennacer’s Atletico Madrid move collapsed – the details | OneFootball

Ismael Bennacer came very close to signing for Atletico Madrid during the summer transfer window but the move eventually collapsed, leaving both the player and Milan somewhat in the lurch.

As reported in Spain by Mundo Deportivo (via Milan News), the salary of the Algerian midfielder was ultimately the sticking point in the negotiation.

Diego Simeone’s side were not willing to cover the entire salary, whilst Milan did not want to leave any trace of Bennacer on the books financially, so a stalemate was reached.

The fact that Bennacer came so close to leaving and then ultimately stayed means that he has been left in limbo. He is not in the immediate plans of Paulo Fonseca, and he would clearly like to play his football elsewhere.

To rub salt in the wounds, Bennacer now has a new injury that will need surgery so he cannot even stay fit and push for a January move.

It is not clear whether Fonseca would have continued to use Bennacer beyond the failed move, but he certainly would have favoured players who have a long-term future with the Rossoneri over someone who is likely to leave at the next available opportunity which is January.