Key Takeaways:
- Inter have been pursuing a last-minute transfer for Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji before the Serie A deadline on 20:00 CET today
- A deal for Akanji is expected to depend on Inter completing the sale of Benjamin Pavard, who has attracted attention from Marseille
- Akanji has declined offers from Milan and Galatasaray this summer, expressing an interest in Champions League football, and has yet to play this season for Manchester City
Transfer Window Deadline Day Activity
Inter are reportedly making a late bid to secure the services of Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji, according to SportingPedia sources. The Nerazzurri’s approach comes after their city rivals, Milan, failed in an earlier attempt to sign the Switzerland international this week.
Negotiations may prove complicated, as Akanji has already rejected moves to Milan and Galatasaray during the current transfer window. Additionally, other clubs remain in contention for the defender’s signature.
🚨⚫️🔵 Inter have sent loan proposal to Manchester City for Manuel Akanji. Talks underway.
Akanji said yes to Inter possibility. ✅ pic.twitter.com/yq3AER7L7v
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2025
Akanji is said to be eager to participate in Champions League football this season, a key factor that influenced his decision to turn down Milan.
Situational Analysis at Manchester City
Akanji, aged 30 and formerly of Borussia Dortmund, currently finds himself out of favour at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola has fielded three different centre-backs — John Stones, Ruben Dias, and Abdukodir Khusanov — in Manchester City’s first three league fixtures, while Akanji has not featured thus far.
| Player | Current Club | Potential Movement | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manuel Akanji | Manchester City | Inter Target | No appearances this season |
| Benjamin Pavard | Inter | Potential sale to Marseille | Interest reported from Marseille |
Inter’s Transfer Plans Hinge on Pavard
Should Inter wish to finalise a deal for Akanji, outgoing transfer activity may be necessary. Reports from Italy suggest that Benjamin Pavard could be on his way to Marseille, who are interested in the French defender. Securing a deal for Pavard could provide Inter with the funds or squad flexibility needed to proceed with Akanji’s acquisition.
The final hours of the Serie A transfer window are set to be decisive, with all transactions required to be concluded by 20:00 CET today.
