Inter Milan have suprisingly won the race to sign Swiss defender Manuel Akanji from Manchester City after weeks of uncertainty over his future. Softfootball earlier reported that Galatasaray were the first club to strike an agreement with City, even settling on a transfer fee, but Akanji himself rejected the Turkish move as he was not convinced about the project.
AC Milan also showed serious interest in bringing the defender to Serie A, but Inter’s persistence and quick negotiations gave them the edge over their arch rivals, softfootball understands that the deal is expected to be permanent following Akanji playing a certain number of games for the Nerazurris.
According to Transfer Expert Fabrizio Romano, he confirmed the breakthrough via his official X handle saying :
“EXCL: Inter agree deal with Man City to sign Manuel Akanji, here we go!
€2m loan fee, €15m buy option clause to become mandatory only under difficult conditions.
Akanji set for medical now, as he agreed to the move.”
The agreement represents a smart piece of business for Inter, who were in the market for defensive reinforcements after injuries and and outgoing transfers forced their hand this late in the summer. Softfootball reports that Inter’s board pushed hard to get the deal over the line after identifying Akanji’s versatility and ball-playing ability as a perfect fit for Simone Inzaghi’s system.
For Manchester City, the move allows them to trim their defensive department while also keeping the door open to a permanent transfer if certain clauses are met. Akanji, meanwhile, gets the chance to explore another chapter in his career in Serie A at one of Italy’s biggest clubs, and Inter fans will be hopeful that his arrival strengthens their push for domestic and European success.
