Manuel Akanji targets Premier League switch amid AC Milan and Galatasaray interest | OneFootball

Manchester City could be coming up against Manuel Akanji later this season, should the Swiss international get his transfer wish this summer.

The 30-year-old has been at the centre of persistent speculation during the ongoing transfer window, with clubs across Europe weighing up moves for the highly-experienced Champions League winner of the Etihad Stadium.

AC Milan and Tottenham Hotspur have both tested Manchester City’s stance in recent days, while Galatasaray explored the possibility of including Akanji in a triple swoop alongside Ederson and İlkay Gündoğan earlier in the summer.

City themselves have shown a willingness to negotiate, having already indicated openness to Milan’s approaches. The Serie A side are looking for experienced defensive cover as they adapt to a new tactical system, while Spurs identified Akanji as one of three key centre-back targets.

Galatasaray’s bold plans ultimately failed to materialise, but the defender’s name has remained firmly on the transfer agenda. Previous reports revealed that Akanji had turned down Milan’s opening contract proposal despite City’s acceptance of an initial package.

His rejection was largely rooted in personal ambitions, with the player unwilling to commit to terms that did not align with his career priorities. Sources close to the situation suggested that Champions League football was high on Akanji’s agenda, a desire that has shaped his decision-making throughout the summer.

Now, according to the information of journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Manuel Akanji is targeting a move to another Premier League club this summer amid interest from various clubs, but also holds ambitions of playing at the highest level of European competition.

With Akanji’s profile combining experience, tactical flexibility, and immediate readiness, it is not inconceivable that an English rival may see him as a shrewd reinforcement. For Manchester City, the situation is finely balanced, and Pep Guardiola could yet reintegrate the Switzerland international into his defensive options if no acceptable move is finalised.

However, the club are also keen to trim the squad and refresh certain positions. A sale within the Premier League would come with added risk, strengthening a potential rival, yet could also bring in a more lucrative transfer fee than offers from abroad.

The coming hours will prove decisive; should no Champions League-level club make a late approach, Manuel Akanji may be faced with choosing between the financial and cultural appeal of Milan or Galatasaray, or the competitive allure of staying in England.

Either way, the defender’s future remains one of the most intriguing storylines of Manchester City’s summer window, as the market enters into its final hours and days.