Inter plot summer 2026 transfer for Manchester City defender – Deal already planned internally | OneFootball

Serie A giants Inter are already plotting to sign Manuel Akanji from Manchester City in the summer of 2026 irrespective of agreed obligation to buy terms.

The Switzerland international joined City in 2022 and quickly became a reliable option in Pep Guardiola’s system, demonstrating versatility across central defence and even at full-back in a hugely successful opening season with the club.

However, his position in the squad began to look uncertain as the club reshaped their defensive core throughout 2025, particularly after the acquisitions of both Vitor Reis and Abdukodir Khusanov in January.

Reports in the summer highlighted Akanji as one of several first-team names with unclear futures, alongside the likes of Ederson, İlkay Gündoğan, and Jack Grealish, with the 29-year-old mentioned in discussions about potential departures.

Galatasaray were long-linked with the Swiss defender during the summer, signalling that interest in the player extended beyond Italy. Although despite those rumours, Inter’s admiration proved successful in finalising a loan deal with a buy option clause becoming mandatory if the defender plays at least 50 per cent of games, and if Inter win Serie A.

Now, according to the information of Fabrizio Romano, Inter plan to buy Manuel Akanji from Manchester City in the summer of 2026 regardless of their buy obligation clause included in their ongoing season-long loan deal.

The report highlights that a €15 million deal has already been planned internally at the Italian club unless ‘new factors’ appear in the next eight months, with Inter ‘very happy’ with the Manchester City man.

Looking ahead, the outcome of a deal could depend heavily on both Akanji’s continued form during his loan spell and an ability to retain at peak physical fitness, acting as a dependable option in the heart of their defence.

Meanwhile back at the Etihad Stadium, there are reports of interest in John Stones extending his contract, and perhaps a feeling that Vitor Reis could yet successfully integrate into Guardiola’s plans from next season.

For Inter, sealing Akanji’s services would strengthen their backline for the medium term while offering excellent value at €15 million. From City’s perspective, they may view an exit as a simple end of an era, selling a hugely successful figure for the price they paid four years ago.