Tottenham Hotspur have officially approached Manchester Cityover the signing of centre-back Manuel Akanji, according to reports,as both clubs prepare for a frantic conclusion to the transfer window.
The north London club are eager to strengthen their defensive line, with Thomas Frank prioritising reinforcements following setbacks in other areas
of the market. Spurs’ pursuit of Akanji comes after frustration in their attempts to land
Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié. The Switzerland international
is now seen as one of three centre-backs on Tottenham’s shortlist,
highlighting the seriousness of their interest in adding a proven
Premier League-quality defender to their squad before the deadline.
Akanji’s Situation at Manchester City
Akanji, who has been a consistent figure since his arrival from
Borussia Dortmund, faces an uncertain future as Pep Guardiola
continues to streamline his squad.
With Ruben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, Nathan Aké,
and Abdukodir Khusanov all competing for minutes,
City are willing to consider serious offers for the 30-year-old.
The defender recently turned down an offer from Galatasaray,
despite a club-to-club agreement being in place, with salary expectations
proving a stumbling block. Interest has also come from
Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen,
while Italian giants AC Milan remain in talks and are
reportedly prepared to pay £15 million for his services.
Tottenham’s Defensive Priorities
Tottenham’s defensive set-up has come under scrutiny in recent months,
with the club conceding costly goals at crucial times last season.
Manager Thomas Frank is well aware of the need for a
reliable and versatile centre-back who can adapt both centrally
and in wide defensive roles.
Akanji’s Premier League experience, tactical flexibility,
and ability to play under high-pressure conditions make him an attractive solution.
If Spurs are able to strike an agreement, Akanji would arrive as a
ready-made reinforcement rather than a long-term project.
City’s Wider Strategy
For Manchester City, allowing Akanji to depart would not
be unexpected. Guardiola has repeatedly signalled his intention to reduce
squad size and open pathways for younger talents such as
Vitor Reis, who is currently gaining experience on loan at Girona.
With confidence in the defensive depth already available, City view Akanji’s
sale as an opportunity to maintain balance within the squad while generating funds.
The Player’s Perspective
Manuel Akanji has been deliberate and calculated in
considering his options this summer. While financial terms remain important,
the Swiss international is equally focused on joining a project where he can
remain competitive at the highest levels of club football.
A move to Tottenham would keep him in the Premier League, maintaining his profile
in one of the most competitive leagues in the world. By contrast, a switch to
AC Milan would offer the allure of Serie A and a historic club with a strong
European pedigree.
FAQs
- Who are Tottenham targeting?
Manuel Akanji is one of three centre-backs on Spurs’ shortlist after setbacks in
other pursuits, including Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié.
- What is AC Milan’s stance?
AC Milan remain in talks with City and are prepared to pay £15 million, though
personal terms with Akanji are still being negotiated.
- Why would City sell Akanji?
With several high-quality defenders already in the squad, Guardiola is open to
trimming down numbers and creating space for emerging talents.
- Has Akanji rejected other offers?
Yes, he recently rejected Galatasaray due to salary disagreements, despite a
club-to-club agreement being in place.
- What does Tottenham gain from this signing?
Proven Premier League quality, tactical versatility, and a player
experienced in competing at the top level of European football.
Conclusion
With less than a week remaining in the transfer window,
Tottenham’s move for Manuel Akanji adds another layer
of intrigue to the late market drama. Manchester City are open to
negotiating, AC Milan remain in the race, and the final decision could
hinge on Akanji’s own preferences regarding his next career step.
Whether he opts for Tottenham’s Premier League project
or a switch to Serie A with AC Milan, his choice
will significantly influence how City’s defensive set-up looks heading
into the new campaign.
