AC Milan Target Manuel Akanji in Search for New Centre-Back

AC Milan are interested in signing Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji to boost their defense before the transfer window closes. The Swiss international is one of three potential options, and Milan have asked about a possible deal but haven’t made an official offer yet.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Galatasaray reached a £15 million agreement with Manchester City for Akanji but haven’t convinced him to leave yet. He is expected to decide soon, while Milan are checking the deal’s conditions. Akanji, 30, has played nearly 150 matches for City and won the Champions League. However, with manager Pep Guardiola excluding the defender from his plans, he is seeking a new club. Reports indicate that City will let Akanji go if their price is met, and after recent depth and injury woes, Milan consider him a good option to enhance their defense.

MILAN’S SEASON SO FAR AND WHAT AKANJI WOULD BRING

Milan have started the 2025-26 Serie A season aiming to challenge for the title. They finished eighth last season, with their defensive record hurting their challenge. This year, Milan lost their opener to Cremonese and want to improve the squad to pose a challenge for the European spots. Adding Akanji, a Champions League winner, will bring valuable leadership and experience to a young backline. Last season, he played 27 games for Manchester City, scoring once and providing two assists. He is viewed as an ideal mentor for Milan’s younger players and teammates. Meanwhile, Galatasaray are hoping to convince Akanji to join them ahead of the new season.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR AC MILAN?

Milan must decide on Akanji’s future with the window closing and are considering their shortlist of central defensive options, which also includes Fulham’s Calvin Bassey. A decision is expected soon, with Galatasaray hopeful a transfer can be completed before the deadline. Milan will be wary of missing out again after failing with a Premier League player in Ruben Loftus-Cheek.