Dinamo Zagreb president Zvonimir Boban has expressed his desire to re-sign Ismael Bennacer, currently under contract with AC Milan, though any move is contingent on the player resolving his existing deal with the Italian club. Boban, a former Milan player and director, stated the Croatian side would be an “ideal” destination for Bennacer should he become a free agent, according to reports in the Italian press.
Bennacer spent last season on loan at Dinamo Zagreb, making 19 appearances across all competitions. While his playing time was limited, Boban has long been a known admirer of the Algerian international. The club held a purchase option of €10 million at the end of the loan period, but it appears they are now pursuing a different route to secure his services.
Bennacer originally joined Milan in 2019, also at Boban’s behest, and has struggled for consistent playing time recently. His last appearance for the Rossoneri was in February 2025, and he has not featured for the club in over a year and a half. He currently earns approximately €4 million net per year, and Milan are reportedly considering options to recoup some value from the player, who is fully amortized on their balance sheet.
While a contract termination is not out of the question, Milan will first explore potential transfer offers for Bennacer. Boban will therefore have to wait to see if Milan decide to release the player from his contract before he can pursue a permanent move. The situation leaves Bennacer’s future uncertain, with a return to Zagreb appearing increasingly likely should negotiations with Milan stall.
