AC Milan has set their sights on finding an alternative to Algerian midfield star Ismael Bennacer, who currently does not have a reliable backup in Pioli's team. While Pobega, Krunic, and Vranckx have filled his position this season, they lack the same pace, and aggressiveness building tempo that Bennacer exudes. Therefore, the Rossoneri will be scouring the market for a player with a similar profile to the former Empoli talent. Johann Lepenant, a midfielder born in 2002 who joined Lyon from Caen last summer for €4.2m plus €2.5m in bonuses, is on the list of scouts headed by Geoffrey Moncada. Caen retain 10% on any future resale, as relayed by Calciomercato.com.
The transition from the small reality of northwestern France to one of France's top clubs is a significant step for Lepenant, yet he did not feel its weight on his shoulders. He made 19 appearances out of 24, 13 of which as a starter, and scored a goal against Ajaccio last January 29. In a short time, Lepenant became a cornerstone of Laurent Blanc's team, who arrived in early October to replace Peter Bosz with the objective of bringing Lyon back to European competitions (although a Champions League spot seems far-fetched as they are 15 points behind). Lepenant's outstanding personality and reading of the game have proven him to be a jewel, and his future seems promising.
