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Report: Southampton, West Ham United keen on bringing exiled midfielder Ahmad Benali back to England

Ahmad Benali celebrates scoring Manchester City's first goal (Reuters)
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The former Manchester City player is said to be keen on a return to the country of his birth, with Southampton and West Ham United supposedly interested.

Ahmad Benali celebrates scoring Manchester City's first goalAhmad Benali in action for Manchester City reserves

Southampton and West Ham United are interested in bringing Ahmad Benali back to English football, the Sun reports.

Libya international is Manchester born and raised, but moved to Italy in 2012 upon his release by Manchester City.

The central midfielder has impressed for Pescara despite the Dolphins’ failure to avoid relegation, scoring six goals and creating two in 32 Serie A appearances, and is said to have interest from divisional rivals Atalanta, Bologna and Genoa.

However, according to the Sun Benali would prefer a return to the country of his birth, and Southampton and West Ham United could be willing to assist.

- AC Milan's M'Baye Niang in action with Pescara's Ahmad BenaliAhmad Benali (right) in action for Pescara

Both clubs are likely to add to their midfield ranks this summer, while the 25-year-old’s reported £3 million price tag should put him well within the pair’s budget.

However, with the futures of Southampton and West Ham bosses Claude Puel and Slaven Bilic said to be up in the air, it remains to be seen whether the two clubs’ alleged interest will continue into the summer transfer window.

Is Benali a good signing for Southampton, West Ham?

West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic and Southampton manager Claude PuelWest Ham United manager Slaven Bilic and Southampton manager Claude Puel