Inter Milan to Trigger Buy Option for Manchester City's Manuel Akanji
Inter Milan are set to make defender Manuel Akanji's loan move from Manchester City permanent this summer by activating a buy option clause. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Serie A leaders will pay a fee of approximately €15 million to secure the Swiss international on a full transfer, with personal terms already agreed.
Akanji has been a key figure for Inter during his season-long loan, helping the club to the top of the Italian league table. His consistent performances have convinced the Nerazzurri hierarchy to commit to the deal, which represents a significant piece of business ahead of the summer window. For Manchester City, the sale continues a period of anticipated transition, with several established players expected to depart the Etihad.
The move brings clarity to Akanji's future after two-and-a-half seasons with City, where he won multiple trophies following his 2022 arrival from Borussia Dortmund. His departure is part of a broader reshaping of Pep Guardiola's squad, with Bernardo Silva and John Stones also confirmed to be leaving when their contracts expire. Romano noted that the long-term future of Guardiola himself remains a topic of discussion, with current Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca reportedly the favoured candidate to succeed him whenever he departs.
For Inter, securing Akanji provides stability in a defence that has been fundamental to their success this campaign. The permanent deal avoids any protracted negotiation and allows the club to plan with certainty for next season. The reported fee is considered a reasonable market value for a 30-year-old defender with extensive experience in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and now Serie A.
Meanwhile, Romano provided updates on several other major clubs. He stated that Manchester United's priority is to sign at least two new central midfielders, with Carlos Baleba and Atalanta's Ederson among the names monitored. However, he emphasized that United's activity is contingent on securing Champions League football and making a final managerial decision. Ederson, also a target for Atletico Madrid, has a price tag of €45 million from Atalanta.
The future of Marcus Rashford at Barcelona remains uncertain. Romano reported that the Catalan club is happy with the Manchester United forward's attitude and performances but hopes to renegotiate the terms of his loan deal rather than trigger the €30 million purchase option. Rashford is said to be keen to stay, but United are insisting on the agreed clause being met if he is to remain in Spain.
Finally, Romano addressed speculation linking Julian Alvarez with a move away from Atletico Madrid, specifically to Barcelona. He stated that no developments are imminent, as the Argentine forward is fully focused on Atletico's Champions League semi-final campaign. While Barcelona's interest is acknowledged, the financial package required is described as a significant obstacle, and all decisions regarding Alvarez's future will be made after the season concludes.
