Manchester United will have to wait if they're to complete a move for Ismael Bennacer.
According to Italian publication Calcio Mercato, the AC Milan midfielder will not be available until next summer after information emerged regarding a clause in his contract.
In contrast to what had been been reported last week, the 22-year-old has a release clause in his contract that means that a club can discuss personal terms with the player if they meet his £44million valuation.
However that clause does not become active until next summer.
As well as the Red Devils, Manchester City are also said to be keen on a move with Pep Guardiola said to have spoken to the midfielder about his future.
Bennacer has made quite an impression since moving to AC Milan following a disappointing spell with Arsenal.
The midfielder worked under Arsene Wenger between 2015 and 2017 but failed to live up to his potential in North London.
He moved on to play for Empoli in Italy's Serie B before securing a high profile switch to AC Milan
However after finding his feet at the San Siro, it seems that he could be lined up for a move sooner or later.
GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...
This is a big blow for Manchester United and Manchester City.
It seemed that Ismael Bennacer was set to be on the move this summer, but following these latest developments that may not be on the cards.
It's unlikely that AC Milan will allow him to leave on the cheap ahead of the clause in his contract becoming active.
Whether either of the Manchester clubs will look to force through a move this summer remains to be seen, however it's likely to cost a significant sum.
However if that amount is less than some of the other targets on United's radar, then it could be one that materialises.