Galatasaray targets Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji after Sane, Osimhen signings

Manchester Citys Swiss defender Manuel Akanji runs with the ball during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on Sept. 22, 2024. (AFP Photo)

Manchester Citys Swiss defender Manuel Akanji runs with the ball during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on Sept. 22, 2024. (AFP Photo)

Galatasaray is ramping up its transfer efforts after securing Leroy Sane and finalizing the signing of star striker Victor Osimhen.

The Turkish Super Lig champions have reportedly made an official bid to Manchester City for Swiss defender Manuel Akanji, 30, who can operate across the backline, according to the Türkiye daily.

With departures expected for Victor Nelsson and Carlos Cuesta, Galatasaray is seeking to bolster its defensive options ahead of the new season.

According to journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, the 28 million euro-rated Akanji is now the focus of a high-profile transfer push.

Agent set to arrive in Istanbul

As official negotiations between the clubs are underway, Akanji’s representative is expected in Istanbul this week to meet with Galatasaray officials.

Manchester City's Norwegian striker Erling Haaland celebrates scoring his team's third goal with Manchester City's Swiss defender Manuel Akanji during the UEFA Champions League Group G football match between Young Boys and Manchester City at The Wankdorf Stadium, in Bern, Oct. 25, 2023. (AFP Photo)