Real Madrid Transfers: 5 possible midfielders to target going into 2021

AC Milan DM Ismael Bennacer

Just 23 years old, Ismael Bennacer is a defensive-minded midfielder who often flies under the radar when discussing the best midfielders in Serie A. Bennacer has probably lost some more hype because he now shares the spotlight with Italian sensation Sandro Tonali, but the defensive midfielder remains effective in 2020-2021.

Bennacer would likely be a cheaper option than Houssem Aouar and Eduardo Camavinga, but if we consider Aouar a “Plan B” to Camavinga and Paul Pogba, then Bennacer is more like “Plan C”. He is on the radar, but he wouldn’t be one of the top options.

Still, I would rather have him than Yves Bissouma, because he has played at a higher level for a bigger club. The transition to Real Madrid would be easier for Bennacer, who could comfortably slot in as a much-needed backup to Casemiro.

Bennacer recorded 2.2 tackles and 1.7 interceptions in Serie A last season, and he has 2.4 tackles per game this season. He’s missed several games recently due to injury, but when he has played, he’s been a crucial player for Serie A’s best team.

It’s easy for fans outside of Milan to underrate Bennacer, but he’s a great defense-first player who could fit Real’s needs in midfield perfectly. He may also be more affordable than the other names on the wishlist.