Manuel Akanji’s move to Inter Milan has reached a breakthrough after the Nerazzurri agreed terms with Manchester City for the Swiss defender’s signature. The clubs have struck a deal worth €17 million total, structured as a €2 million loan fee plus a €15 million buy option clause that becomes mandatory only under specific difficult conditions.
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Deal Structure Provides Clever Financial Solution
Inter Milan have negotiated a shrewd deal structure that minimizes immediate financial commitment while securing a proven defender. The €17 million package breaks down as a €2 million loan fee for the initial period, with the €15 million buy option designed to become mandatory only under difficult conditions that protect Inter’s financial flexibility.
| Akanji Deal Breakdown | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Loan Fee | €2 million |
| Buy Option Clause | €15 million |
| Total Potential Cost | €17 million |
| Activation Conditions | Difficult to trigger |
| Current Salary at City | €5m per season |
This structure allows Inter to assess Akanji’s adaptation to Serie A before committing to the full transfer fee, while the difficult activation conditions provide additional protection against unwanted financial obligations.
Agreement Reached Despite Complex Negotiations
The breakthrough comes after intensive negotiations between Inter Milan and Manchester City, with both clubs finally finding common ground on a deal structure that satisfies their respective requirements. The agreement represents a significant coup for Inter, who have secured a proven Champions League defender without immediately committing to the full transfer fee.
Sources close to the negotiations confirm that the deal’s completion awaits only final formalities, including medical examinations and contract signing, with all major terms now agreed between the clubs and player.
Previous Rejections Clear Path for Inter
Akanji’s rejection of multiple approaches throughout the summer has inadvertently cleared the path for Inter’s late move. The Swiss defender turned down advances from AC Milan due to their lack of European football, while also rebuffing a €17 million accepted offer from Galatasaray due to uncertainty about moving to Turkish football.
| Rejected Approaches | Reason |
|---|---|
| AC Milan | No Champions League |
| Galatasaray (€17m agreed) | Uncertain about Turkey move |
| Previous Interest | Various factors |
These rejections have created an opening for Inter to capitalize on, with their Champions League qualification and competitive squad proving attractive to the experienced defender.
City’s Squad Trimming Creates Opportunity
Manchester City’s need to trim their defensive ranks has created the perfect opportunity for Inter to strike. Pep Guardiola currently has six center-backs on his books – Ruben Dias, John Stones, Abdukodur Khusanov, Josko Gvardiol, Manuel Akanji, and Nathan Ake – making departures inevitable.
Akanji has yet to feature in City’s first three Premier League matches this season, with Guardiola rotating between John Stones, Ruben Dias, and new signing Khusanov in central defense. This lack of playing time has made the Swiss international more open to considering his options.
Pavard Connection Complicates Negotiations
The potential deal for Akanji is intrinsically linked to Benjamin Pavard’s future, with Marseille showing interest in the French defender. However, complications arise from Marseille’s preference for a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer, which doesn’t align with Inter’s financial planning.
Romano reports that the deal is “not easy” due to these complications and the limited time remaining before the transfer deadline. Inter would prefer to secure Pavard’s permanent departure before finalizing Akanji’s arrival, though sources suggest they may proceed regardless.
Versatility Adds Appeal for Simone Inzaghi
Akanji’s tactical versatility makes him particularly attractive to Inter coach Simone Inzaghi, who values players capable of adapting to different systems and positions. The Swiss international can operate as a center-back in a back three, right-back, or even in a defensive midfield role when required.
His Champions League experience with both Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City provides additional value, bringing tactical knowledge and big-game mentality to Inter’s European campaigns.
Technical Profile Perfect for Serie A
The 30-year-old’s technical abilities align perfectly with Serie A’s tactical demands and Inter’s playing style. Known for his composure on the ball, excellent passing range, and ability to read the game, Akanji possesses the attributes Inzaghi seeks in his defensive players.
His Premier League experience under Pep Guardiola has enhanced his tactical understanding and positional awareness, qualities that translate well to Italian football’s tactical complexity.
Financial Considerations and Salary Structure
Manchester City’s willingness to facilitate Akanji’s departure stems partly from financial fair play considerations and squad management needs. The defender’s €5 million annual salary requires careful structuring in any potential Inter deal, though his desire for regular playing time may influence salary negotiations.
Inter’s financial planning allows for strategic additions, particularly if they can balance incoming transfers with potential departures like Pavard’s move to Marseille.
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FAQs
What are the exact terms of Manuel Akanji’s Inter Milan deal?
The agreement includes a €2 million loan fee plus a €15 million buy option clause, totaling €17 million. The buy option becomes mandatory only under specific difficult conditions that protect Inter financially.
Why is the buy option clause described as having “difficult conditions”?
The difficult conditions likely include performance metrics, appearances, or team achievements that must be met for the purchase to become mandatory, giving Inter flexibility in their final decision.
When will the Manuel Akanji transfer be made official?
The agreement is complete but awaits final formalities including medical examinations and contract signing before official announcement.
How does this deal compare to other rejected offers for Akanji?
Previous approaches from AC Milan were rejected due to no Champions League football, while Galatasaray’s accepted €17 million bid was turned down by the player himself due to uncertainty about Turkish football.
How much playing time has Akanji had at Manchester City this season?
He has yet to feature in any of City’s first three Premier League matches, with Guardiola preferring other defensive options in the early season fixtures.
