AC Milan Step Up Manuel Akanji Transfer Talks as Rossoneri Challenge Galatasaray

The transfer window is edging towards its frantic conclusion, and AC Milan have now turned their attention firmly towards Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji. The Swiss centre-back has been pushed to the fringes of Pep Guardiola’s squad, and his uncertain future has opened the door for Milan to make their move. But with Galatasaray already circling and pushing hard for a deal, the Rossoneri face a race against time to secure the 30-year-old’s signature.

AC Milan Approach Man City Over Manuel Akanji Transfer

Milan’s interest in Akanji is not entirely new, but their decision to establish first contact with City this week signals a serious intent. Fabrizio Romano has reported that while the Italian giants have not yet submitted an official bid, they have reached out to learn the conditions of a potential transfer.

For Milan, the timing is crucial. Their Serie A campaign began in disappointing fashion, suffering a shock defeat at San Siro to Cremonese. Defensive gaps were painfully exposed, and Stefano Pioli’s squad suddenly looks short of the balance needed to fight on multiple fronts this season.

Up until now, most of Milan’s energy in the market had been spent chasing attacking reinforcements. The club explored ambitious moves for Victor Boniface, Artem Dovbyk, and even Christopher Nkunku, who is believed to have an agreement in principle with the Rossoneri. But after the Cremonese loss, priorities have shifted. Reinforcing the defence has jumped to the top of the list, and Akanji fits the bill as a ready-made solution.

Why Manuel Akanji Appeals to the Rossoneri

At 30 years old, Akanji brings with him a wealth of experience at both club and international level. Before joining City in 2022, he spent four years at Borussia Dortmund, competing regularly in the Bundesliga and the Champions League. For Switzerland, he has amassed over 50 international caps, becoming a central figure in their defensive setup across major tournaments.

Milan’s backline currently leans heavily on youth. Koni De Winter has shown promise, but relying on such inexperience in a long Serie A campaign carries risk. Akanji would immediately add leadership, composure, and a proven track record of performing in high-pressure situations. He is comfortable on the ball, a trait Guardiola values highly, and one that would suit Milan’s attempts to build from the back.

Galatasaray’s Frustrated Pursuit

For City, Akanji’s exit has been on the cards for weeks. Guardiola has made it clear he wants to streamline his squad ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, focusing on a smaller core group of players. Akanji was informed he was no longer part of the main picture, and the club believed they had lined up his transfer to Galatasaray earlier this month.

The Turkish champions even agreed a fee in the region of £15m (€18m/$20m) with City, but the deal collapsed when Akanji’s personal terms could not be resolved. Wages proved to be the sticking point, and despite Gala’s persistence, an agreement never materialised. That hesitation has now opened the door for Milan, who sense an opportunity to step in and take advantage.

What Akanji’s Arrival Would Mean for Milan

Christopher Nkunku Milan

Milan’s defensive concerns go beyond one bad result against Cremonese. Injuries and inconsistencies have plagued their backline in recent seasons. While Fikayo Tomori remains a key presence, the Englishman has often lacked a reliable partner. Malick Thiaw and Pierre Kalulu have had moments of promise, but neither has yet established themselves as an undisputed starter.

Akanji, with his blend of physical strength, tactical awareness, and Champions League pedigree, would be a natural fit. He would not only shore up Milan’s defence in Serie A but also provide the level of experience required to compete in Europe. For Pioli, adding a defender of Akanji’s profile could make the difference between another frustrating campaign and one where Milan can truly push their rivals.

City’s Perspective: A Departure That Suits Both Parties

Milan

From Manchester City’s standpoint, moving Akanji on makes sense. Guardiola’s squad is stacked with defensive depth, featuring Ruben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Nathan Ake, and youngster Rico Lewis who continues to impress. Akanji simply does not fit into the long-term picture anymore.

His omission from City’s matchday squad against Tottenham was a telling signal. Guardiola is rarely shy about making tough decisions, and Akanji’s exclusion highlighted his fall from favour. Selling him now would not only generate funds but also free up a significant wage bill as City refine their roster for the challenges ahead.

Race Against Time Before the Window Closes

With only days remaining before the transfer window shuts, Milan are under pressure to act decisively. Their initial contact with City is an encouraging step, but they must now decide whether to accelerate negotiations into a formal bid.

The competition from Galatasaray remains real. The Turkish side may yet return with an improved financial package, hoping to finally meet Akanji’s demands. Milan’s advantage lies in the appeal of Serie A football and the prestige of San Siro, factors that could sway Akanji’s decision should both offers be on the table.

A Defining Moment for Milan’s Season

Ultimately, the pursuit of Manuel Akanji has become about more than just signing another defender. For Milan, it represents a statement of intent—a recognition that their early-season shortcomings cannot be ignored, and that action must be taken if they are to mount a genuine challenge domestically and in Europe.

If they succeed, Akanji could become a cornerstone of stability in a team seeking balance between youth and experience. If they hesitate, Galatasaray may yet swoop back in, leaving Milan to search for alternatives with the clock ticking down.

Either way, the next few days could go a long way in shaping the Rossoneri’s fortunes for the season ahead.