Galatasaray Step Up Chase For Manuel Akanji After Man City Agree £15m Fee

Galatasaray have sent their official contract offer to Manuel Akanji after reaching a £15 million deal with Manchester City, but the player’s decision is still pending.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Turkish champions moved quickly to strengthen their defence by targeting Swiss international Manuel Akanji. After lengthy talks, Galatasaray agreed to meet Manchester City’s valuation for the 30-year-old centre-back. The club has now sent a formal contract proposal to Akanji’s representatives. Despite their efforts, there is no agreement yet, as Akanji is weighing his options and has not made a final decision about his future. Galatasaray want a defender who can operate both centrally and out wide, and Akanji’s versatility fits their plans. Victor Osimhen, Galatasaray’s top striker, has also reached out to Akanji, encouraging him to make the move.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Galatasaray finished top of the Süper Lig last season, edging out Fenerbahçe by a considerable margin, and they begin the new campaign as defending champions. The team is focused on bolstering their squad ahead of the Champions League group stage, which starts in September. Akanji played 39 matches last season for Manchester City, scoring twice and providing two assists, although City finished 3rd in the Premier League and lost early in the Champions League to Real Madrid. Galatasaray are keen to finalize transfers before the Turkish transfer deadline on September 12, and before the Champions League squad registration closes on September 2. Manchester City, meanwhile, are preparing for their next league match against Tottenham, sitting at the top in the Premier League, after their win in the opening match.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

All eyes are on Akanji’s next move, with Galatasaray hopeful he will accept their offer and join before the transfer window shuts. If the deal progresses, he could debut for Galatasaray soon, with their next league match against Kasımpaşa, who finished mid-table last season. Galatasaray are eager to secure their defensive depth as they aim to defend their title domestically and make an impact in Europe. Akanji continues to evaluate his options, so fans and clubs alike await his decision in the coming days.