Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has contacted AC Milan midfielder Ismael Bennacer to persuade him into moving to the Etihad, according to RMC Sport.

The French radio station claims that the City boss is very keen on the former Arsenal player, and called him personally to explain his plans ahead of a possible transfer.

Bennacer reportedly has a €50m (£45m) release clause but it remains to be seen whether Milan would accept a lower figure. He only signed from Empoli for an initial €16m (£14.4m) in August last year.

The Algerian international is said to want guarantees on playing time before making a decision on his future, but RMC Sport report that he would “favour” a switch to City if a bid was accepted.

Paris Saint-Germain are also believed to be tracking Bennacer after impressing for the Rossoneri in Serie A this season, making 23 appearances in all competitions so far.