Manuel Akanji responds to rumored Galatasaray transfer

Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has responded to fresh reports linking him with a shock move to Turkish giants Galatasaray.

Earlier today, Wednesday, August 20, 2025, renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed via his social media platforms that City and Galatasaray had reached a £15 million agreement for the Swiss international’s permanent transfer.

Romano’s initial post read:

“Galatasaray are closing in on agreement with Manchester City for Manuel Akanji’s permanent move. £15m fee has been agreed, pending final details. Galatasaray will submit their proposal to the player in the upcoming hours to try get the deal done this week.”

The report immediately generated huge reactions from fans, with many surprised by the news of Akanji’s potential exit. However, the 29-year-old centre-back directly addressed the rumors, insisting he was unaware of any transfer bid involving him at this stage.

Following Akanji’s response, Romano later clarified that while an agreement had indeed been reached between Manchester City and Galatasaray, the Turkish club had not yet presented a formal proposal to the player himself.

Romano wrote in a follow-up post on X (formerly Twitter):

“After club-to-club agreement, Galatasaray will make their offer to Manuel Akanji in 24h. No proposal on the table to the player yet and currently no indications from Akanji on intention to accept destination. Deal agreed between clubs, but not done with the player yet.”

As things stand, the transfer remains in limbo, hinging on whether Akanji will be open to making the switch to the Turkish Super Lig. With the 2025 summer transfer window rapidly approaching its final days, the coming hours will be decisive in determining whether the move materializes.

Akanji, who joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, has been a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s defense, contributing to the club’s domestic and European successes. His potential departure would mark a significant change for City’s backline as they prepare for the new campaign.