AC Milan are keen to tie down Ismael Bennacer to a new contract to ward off interest from Liverpool, according to the Corriere Dello Sport.

The Italian newspaper claims the former Arsenal academy graduate is “in the Reds’ crosshairs” so the Rossoneri are pushing ahead with plans to “lock down” the player.

Bennacer is believed to have a release clause of around €50m (£42m) and that has likely attracted the interest of Liverpool’s sporting director Julian Ward.

The figure is expected to be doubled if the Algerian international signs a contract extension so the Merseyside club would probably have to move quickly if they are to secure his signature.

An injury crisis means the Reds have three midfielders unavailable for selection but there is thought to be hesitation about going into the market to bring in a short-term fix.

Jurgen Klopp’s side may yet decide against making a move for Bennacer, with the club looking to save their funds ahead of a sizeable bid for Jude Bellingham next summer.