Fabrizio Romano says ‘negotiations are underway’ for the exit of ‘really intelligent’ Man City star
Manchester City have made it clear that their focus in the closing weeks of the summer transfer window is no longer centered on major signings, but rather on trimming down Pep Guardiola’s squad. The City manager, who has consistently expressed a preference for working with a lean and tightly-knit group of players, does not want to enter the 2025/26 campaign with an overcrowded dressing room.
Guardiola first voiced this concern last season, insisting that too many options can create imbalance within the squad and complicate team dynamics. His stance was reinforced following City’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux last Saturday. On that occasion, the Catalan tactician sent a subtle but telling message about the pecking order in his squad—Ilkay Gundogan, Manuel Akanji, and Nathan Ake were the only outfield players left unused on the bench, hinting at who could be considered surplus to requirements.
Galatasaray Step Up Interest in Akanji
Among the potential departures, Manuel Akanji’s future has quickly become a focal point. Reports earlier this week suggested that Turkish giants Galatasaray had set their sights on the Swiss defender, and Manchester City were open to listening to offers. That interest has now taken a concrete turn, with Galatasaray officials flying into the United Kingdom to open face-to-face negotiations over a deal.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development, stating on X:
“Galatasaray are on a mission in the UK to try to advance a deal for Manuel Akanji with Manchester City. Negotiations are underway on both Man City and the player’s side, with an agreement still not reached. Man City are open to selling Akanji as Pep Guardiola wants the squad to be reduced.”
Adding an extra twist to the saga, reports claim that Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has personally reached out to Akanji to convince him of the project in Istanbul. Whether the 30-year-old defender will be persuaded remains to be seen, but the approach underlines how serious the Turkish club are about bringing him in.
Guardiola’s Mixed Stance on Akanji
Interestingly, while Guardiola appears ready to sanction Akanji’s departure this summer, it’s worth remembering that the Spaniard has long admired the Swiss international. Shortly after Akanji’s arrival at the Etihad in 2022, Guardiola publicly described him as a “really intelligent” player and was impressed by how seamlessly he slotted into City’s defensive system during a Champions League clash against Sevilla.
However, circumstances have changed. With City boasting defensive depth through Ruben Dias, John Stones, Josko Gvardiol, and Ake, Akanji’s role has diminished. Guardiola, determined not to keep players he cannot consistently rely on for minutes, is prepared to allow the Swiss defender to move on if the right offer materializes.
Double Talks: Akanji and Ederson
Galatasaray’s interest in City players doesn’t end with Akanji. The Turkish champions are also pushing for a deal to sign Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson. According to journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Galatasaray’s delegation is set to meet with Manchester City’s Director of Football, Hugo Viana, this week to negotiate both potential transfers.
The Ederson situation is particularly delicate. While Galatasaray are keen to snap him up, Manchester City will not greenlight his departure until a replacement is lined up. Gianluigi Donnarumma has emerged as the leading candidate, with the Italian goalkeeper reportedly open to a Premier League switch and intrigued by the idea of working under Guardiola. However, the deal remains on hold until clarity is reached over Ederson’s future.
What’s Next for City and Galatasaray?
The coming days are expected to be crucial as negotiations intensify. For City, offloading Akanji and potentially Ederson would help streamline the squad in line with Guardiola’s vision, while also generating funds to strengthen where necessary. For Galatasaray, securing two proven Champions League-level players would significantly boost their ambitions both domestically and in Europe.
As it stands, Manuel Akanji’s time at Manchester City could soon be drawing to a close, with his next chapter possibly unfolding in Istanbul. Yet until an agreement is formally signed, both City fans and Galatasaray supporters will be watching developments closely—particularly given the domino effect the Ederson saga could have on the European goalkeeper market.