Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has confirmed he hopes to stay at Inter Milan permanently after a successful loan spell. Read the full 2025 transfer update, including Inter’s €15 million buy option and what it means for Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Manchester City star Manuel Akanji has broken his silence about his future, confirming that he hopes to stay at Inter Milan on a permanent deal after his season-long loan spell in Serie A.
The Swiss international joined Inter in the 2025 summer transfer window on a loan deal worth €2 million, which includes a €15 million buy option next June. Akanji’s impact has been immediate — he’s become one of Christian Chivu’s most trusted defenders as Inter push for the Serie A title.
Speaking to Italian media earlier this week, the 30-year-old revealed just how much he’s enjoying life in Milan.
“We will see… I hope Inter will buy me on a permanent deal. I feel very good here. I will give my best, and then we will see what happens.”
That statement leaves no room for doubt — Akanji doesn’t plan to return to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City next summer.
From Manchester City Rotation to Inter Milan Mainstay
During his time at the Etihad, Akanji was a dependable squad player but rarely a guaranteed starter. With Rúben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, and Nathan Aké all competing for minutes, consistent playing time became difficult to find.
Under Guardiola, Akanji’s tactical discipline and adaptability made him useful in multiple positions, but he was often rotated depending on the opponent. Inter Milan have offered him something different — a defined role, consistent minutes, and leadership responsibilities in the heart of defence.
At Inter, Akanji has been ever-present this season. His composure on the ball, anticipation, and intelligent positioning have brought stability to Chivu’s backline. Playing alongside Francesco Acerbi and Alessandro Bastoni, he has helped form one of Serie A’s best defensive units.
Inter Milan’s €15 Million Buy Option Explained
The loan agreement between Manchester City and Inter Milan includes:
A €2 million loan fee for the 2025/26 season.
An optional buy clause of €15 million for June 2026.
Conditional clauses that could make the deal mandatory based on appearances or team achievements, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Given Inter’s ongoing financial constraints, the club might look to renegotiate the final price, but insiders believe the deal is excellent value. At €15 million, a defender of Akanji’s pedigree experienced in the Premier League, Champions League, and Serie A represents a bargain.
Why Inter Milan Want to Keep Manuel Akanji
Akanji’s consistency has impressed both Inter’s coaching staff and supporters. He has brought calm leadership, professionalism, and technical assurance — qualities that perfectly suit Inter’s system.
Coach Christian Chivu has relied on Akanji’s ability to read the game and play through the lines, while younger defenders like Yann Bisseck and Valentin Carboni have benefitted from his mentorship.
Off the pitch, Akanji’s character has stood out just as much as his performances. He has quickly adapted to life in Italy, speaks positively about the club, and maintains strong chemistry with teammates.
“I love the club, the coach, and the city,” Akanji said recently. “Inter feels like home.”
If Inter choose to activate the option, they would secure a top-level defender entering his prime at a very reasonable fee.
What Manchester City Gain from a Permanent Sale
From Manchester City’s perspective, a permanent Akanji exit would make sense both financially and sportingly. Pep Guardiola’s side remains stacked with defenders, and the club is already planning for the future with younger signings and tactical evolution.
By selling Akanji for around €15 million, City would free up wages and roster space while maintaining transfer balance. The move would follow the club’s growing strategy of keeping a lean, adaptable squad — similar to how they managed previous exits like João Cancelo and Kalvin Phillips.
What Happens Next in the Manuel Akanji Transfer Story
Although Akanji’s wish is clear, the final decision lies with Inter Milan. The Italian side are expected to assess his situation closer to the end of the 2025/26 campaign, evaluating performances, fitness, and financial considerations before committing to a permanent deal.
However, all indications suggest that Inter intend to keep him beyond this season. City are open to selling, Akanji wants to stay, and the relationship between the clubs remains strong — meaning the transfer could be finalized as early as next summer.
Until then, Akanji remains focused on his performances in Italy, helping Inter challenge for both the Serie A title and progress in the UEFA Champions League.
Conclusion – A Perfect Fit for Both Club and Player
Manuel Akanji’s time at Inter Milan has reignited his career. From a rotational defender at Manchester City to a commanding presence in Serie A, he has shown why he remains one of Europe’s most intelligent and dependable centre-backs.
His calm authority, tactical awareness, and professionalism have made him an instant hit in Milan and it’s clear he wants this to be more than a temporary stay.
Unless there’s a late twist, Akanji’s words may soon become reality: he hopes Inter Milan will buy him permanently and all signs point toward that happening in 2026.
