Chelsea have entered the race for AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer, according to Calciomercatonews.com. The Algerian has been a long term target for Manchester City but the Italian website reports that the Blues have become one of the “most active clubs” in pursuing the player.

It is believed that Milan are still holding out for a figure of around €50m (£45m) for the former Arsenal player, who has played a key role in the Rossoneri’s resurgence in Italy this season.

Bennacer has made 17 appearances in all competitions, helping his side to the top of the Serie A table, although he has been sidelined for the best part of a month with a muscular injury recently.

Calciomercatonews claims that Chelsea may even offer Marcos Alonso and Jorginho in a part-exchange deal for the 23-year-old, although it remains to be seen how reliable a source they are.

Whether City would look to muscle in on any negotiations if their Premier League rivals do make an approach for Bennacer, it remains to be seen.