Inter Milan beat Crystal Palace to Akanji signing

September 1, 2025 16:25 GMT (UK), by Ketan Patel

Manchester City have agreed a 1 million euro loan fee with Inter Milan for Swiss international defender Manuel Akanji, and the player has agreed terms with the Serie A giants and could move on a permanent transfer next summer. Akanji had been expected to move to Premier League rivals Crystal Palace, but a deal fell through at the last minute.

The 30-year-old has fallen out of favour at the Etihad, with Pep Guardiola preferring other defensive options. City have a crowded central defense – Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Josko Gvardiol all feature prominently—so Akanji had slipped down the pecking order. For Inter, it’s an opportunity to quickly bolster a title-challenging squad with a defender who brings premier experience, tactical intelligence, and versatility, without committing to a full transfer until performance and team success justify it. 

Inter get a high-quality, experienced centre-back on a smart, low-risk structure. City streamline their backline. If results align, Inter turn the deal permanent, and everyone wins.

It is understood that Inter will need to pay around 15 million euros for a permanent deal next summer.