Inter Milan are planning to wrap up the signing of Manuel Akanji from Manchester City, turning his season-long loan deal to a permanent deal. The move, which was sealed late on transfer deadline day, includes a €2 million loan fee and a €15 million buy option that turns mandatory if Inter win the Serie A and Akanji plays in at least half of their games this season.
Although the clause depends on performance and results, reports from Italy suggest that Inter’s management are already quite happy with the move. Softfootball understands that Inter believes Akanji brings something new and strong to the defence, and sources hint the club might even push for a permanent deal next summer, regardless of the clause, except something goes wrong.
Transfer Expert Fabrizio romano indicated that inter intends to trigger the defender’s option to buy via his official X handle.
He posted:
Understand Inter plan to buy Manuel Akanji from Man City in summer 2026 regardless of buy obligation clause. €15m deal already planned internally unless new factors appear in the next 8 months; Inter very happy with former #MCFC defender.
Akanji, who didn’t really get regular game time under Pep Guardiola at City last season, was looking for a new challenge. Injuries and rotation affected his run, and he made it clear he wanted a move where he could prove himself again. The switch to Serie A, under manager Cristian Chivu, gives him that chance.
Interestingly, AC Milan once had an eye on Akanji, but Inter made the final move after talks advanced late. The Swiss international reportedly picked the Nerazzurri because of their Champions League spot and their ambition to fight for the Scudetto.
At Manchester City, Akanji collected an impressive medal haul: two Premier League titles, a Champions League, FA Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup. But for all the trophies, he never quite settled or held a consistent spot last term.
Now in Italy, he’s looking to rebuild that momentum and help Inter chase glory again. The club see him as an ideal piece in their defensive setup a solid, ball-playing option who could make a big difference if he finds rhythm early.
