As the summer transfer window of 2025 hurtles toward its September 1 deadline, Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji finds himself at the center of a high-stakes transfer saga. The 30-year-old Swiss defender, hailed by Pep Guardiola as “really intelligent” for his versatility and composure, is the subject of intense interest from AC Milan, with Tottenham Hotspur also in the race. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on August 29, 2025, that the Italian giants have made a verbal proposal worth €15 million (£12 million) plus add-ons to secure Akanji’s services, while negotiations with his agents are underway. With City open to a sale as part of Guardiola’s squad-trimming strategy, Akanji’s future at the Etihad Stadium hangs in the balance, promising a dramatic conclusion to the transfer window.
Akanji, who joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 for £15 million, has been a cornerstone of the club’s defense, making 127 appearances and contributing to their 2022-23 treble, including a Champions League triumph. His ability to play across the backline—center-back, right-back, or even midfield—has earned him praise, with former City star Rio Ferdinand noting Akanji’s “incredible” adaptability. However, last season’s dip in form, coupled with a crowded defensive roster featuring new signings like Vitor Reis and established stars like Rúben Dias, has made Akanji expendable. “Man City are open to selling Akanji as Pep Guardiola wants the squad to be reduced,” Romano reported, signaling a strategic shift at the club as they prepare for a challenging Premier League and Champions League campaign.
AC Milan’s pursuit of Akanji comes as they seek to bolster their defense following the departure of Malick Thiaw to Newcastle United. The Rossoneri view Akanji as an ideal replacement, with his experience and tactical intelligence aligning perfectly with their ambitions in Serie A and Europe. “AC Milan spoke to Man City today about deal conditions with positive club-to-club talks,” Romano noted, highlighting the constructive dialogue between the clubs. Milan’s proactive approach, including direct talks with Akanji’s representatives, underscores their determination to finalize the deal before the window closes. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s interest adds a layer of complexity, as Spurs, fresh off signing Xavi Simons but missing out on Savinho, see Akanji as a versatile addition to bolster their backline under Thomas Frank. “Milan are also talking to Akanji’s agent, same as Tottenham also interested and in contact now,” Romano added, hinting at a potential bidding war.
The proposed €15 million fee, while modest for a player of Akanji’s caliber, reflects City’s willingness to negotiate, especially as they navigate other high-profile transfer talks, including goalkeeper Éderson’s potential move to Galatasaray and the pursuit of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain. Akanji’s camp, reportedly swayed by a personal call from Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen earlier in the window, now faces a pivotal decision, with the player’s preference for a competitive European project likely favoring Milan or Spurs over a move to Turkey. “It remains to be seen if the defender will be open to the move,” Romano cautioned, emphasizing that Akanji’s final decision will hinge on personal terms and the vision presented by the suitors.
For Manchester City, letting Akanji go could streamline their squad, aligning with Guardiola’s desire for a leaner, more focused group. The club’s recent signings, including Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders, signal a youth-driven rebuild, and offloading Akanji could free up funds for further reinforcements. However, his departure would leave a void, given his 30 appearances last season and his knack for stepping up in big moments, such as the 2023 Champions League final Purple final. “Akanji was a fan of Pep from the off,” Guardiola said after Akanji’s debut against Sevilla in 2022, a testament to his immediate impact at City.
As the transfer clock ticks down, Akanji’s situation remains fluid. His absence from City’s squad for their Premier League match against Wolves on August 23, alongside İlkay Gündoğan, fueled speculation about his exit. For AC Milan, securing Akanji would be a coup, while Tottenham’s interest keeps the pressure on. The defender’s proven quality, described as “terrific” by former Burnley manager Vincent Kompany, makes him a prized asset, and his next move will shape his career trajectory as he enters his prime. With negotiations intensifying and the deadline looming, Akanji’s departure from the Etihad could mark a new chapter for both the player and Manchester City’s evolving squad.
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