AC Milan Target Manuel Akanji as Manchester City Exit Looms

Manuel Akanji is at the center of a transfer tug-of-war as AC Milan have approached Manchester City to negotiate a move for the Swiss defender, stepping up their pursuit in the face of competition from Turkish giants Galatasaray. The Serie A side is now positioning itself as the frontrunner after Akanji reportedly turned down a £15 million switch to Turkey due to salary concerns.

Manuel Akanji Linked With AC Milan As City Open To Sale

Manuel Akanji has emerged as a priority defensive target for AC Milan this transfer window. With the Rossoneri eager to reinforce their backline ahead of another demanding Serie A campaign, Milan have officially opened talks with Manchester City to discuss the potential acquisition of the Swiss international.

Galatasaray initially appeared close to landing Akanji, but negotiations stalled when the defender rejected their contract proposal, primarily citing unmet salary expectations. Manchester City, for their part, are willing to let Akanji leave for a fee in the region of £15 million, opening the door for Milan’s swift intervention.

Salary Demands Stall Galatasaray’s Pursuit of Akanji

Galatasaray had agreed on a £15 million transfer fee with City and looked set to finalise the deal. However, Akanji’s refusal to compromise on his wage demands created a stumbling block, with talks breaking down and the transfer put on hold indefinitely. This impasse has provided AC Milan with the opportunity to swoop in and present their own offer.

AC Milan’s Defensive Revamp Underway

Bolstering the defense has been a priority for Milan after a challenging previous season, and Manuel Akanji’s experience in both the Premier League and the Champions League makes him an attractive proposition. The Swiss center-back’s ability to play out from the back and his tactical intelligence align well with Milan’s ambitions to reclaim the Serie A title and compete at the highest level in Europe.

Manchester City Open To Akanji Exit

With City possessing depth in central defense, manager Pep Guardiola appears open to sanctioning Akanji’s departure if a suitable offer arrives. Akanji, who joined City in 2022, made significant contributions to City’s domestic and European campaigns but now finds himself considering a move for more guaranteed playing time.

What This Transfer Could Mean For All Parties

Should AC Milan complete the signing of Manuel Akanji, it would mark a significant statement of intent as they aim to reassert themselves in both Italy and Europe. For Akanji, a move to Serie A presents the prospect of regular football and a new challenge in one of Europe’s most tactical leagues. Meanwhile, Manchester City could use the funds to further strengthen their squad in other areas as they chase more silverware.

For Galatasaray, missing out on Akanji would be a blow, but their inability to meet his salary requests highlights the financial limitations facing even top Turkish clubs when competing with Italy’s elite.

Opinion: AC Milan’s Move for Akanji Is a Smart Statement

From a footballing perspective, AC Milan’s aggressive approach for Manuel Akanji is both smart and ambitious. The Rossoneri’s recent struggles at the back have hampered their consistency, and Akanji’s composure, versatility, and experience at the highest level could be exactly what Milan needs to solidify their defense. If Milan can meet his wage demands and close the deal, this could prove a transformative signing ahead of the new season.

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