Manuel Akanji rejects latest opportunity to leave Manchester City for European giant | OneFootball

Manchester City have seen Manuel Akanji reject a new proposal and opportunity to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer, according to new reports.

The Switzerland international has been one of the most heavily discussed players at City during the closing stages of the ongoing transfer window, with his future repeatedly coming into question despite his senior role in Pep Guardiola’s squad in recent years.

Both AC Milan and City’s Premier League rivals in Tottenham Hotspur have made concrete moves in recent days, testing the Premier League giants’ willingness to sanction a sale as they continue to trim their expanded senior squad.

Akanji was also mentioned in wider discussions with Galatasaray earlier in the window, when the Turkish giants explored a potential triple package deal involving the defender, goalkeeper Ederson, and midfielder İlkay Gündoğan.

While that proposal did not progress, it highlighted the openness within the Etihad Stadium’s hierarchy to listen to offers for several senior players. For Milan, the search for defensive reinforcements has been intensified by tactical adjustments under their management.

Club director Igli Tare even publicly admitted that their shift in system has created the need for an experienced centre-back, directly acknowledging Akanji’s suitability for the profile they require.

But according to the information of journalist Fabrizio Romano, Manuel Akanji himself is not accepting AC Milan’s current contract proposal submitted to the Switzerland international defender.

With no agreement on contract terms between the Italian giants and the 30-year-old defender, it is further stated that Akanji’s preference is to play UEFA Champions League football during the ongoing campaign.

This latest development throws further uncertainty on Akanji’s short-term future, as Milan had already seen an opening verbal offer of €15 million plus add-ons well received on the club-to-club side, with City open to striking an agreement.

However, the lack of alignment on personal terms now appears to be the decisive barrier preventing the deal from advancing. Tottenham may yet return to the table, having already made an approach, but it remains unclear whether they can tempt Akanji.

The Swiss star’s focus on Champions League football could complicate matters, with Spurs currently unable to offer participation in Europe’s elite competition. For City, the outcome could see Akanji reintegrated into Guardiola’s plans despite the willingness to sell, particularly if the market fails to produce a suitable solution for both club and player.

With the Premier League season now underway and the UEFA Champions League campaign on the horizon, a swift resolution may be required – whether that be through a late breakthrough in negotiations or Akanji continuing his Etihad Stadium stay.