According to MARCA, Real Madrid received an opportunity to sign Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji in the summer transfer window. However, the Spanish club have decided against bringing the centre-back and focusing on youngster players.
Manuel Akanji is currently injured
Manchester City brought Manuel Akanji from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022. Since then, the player has been an integral part of the side. He has contributed significantly in the team’s success in the past few years.
Akanji is currently sidelined due to an injury he picked up in the first leg against Real Madrid. However, he got to feature across 30 games this season and has an assist. He is averaging 0.7 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, and 2.5 clearances per game (stats via whoscored).
The Switzerland defender reads the game well and anticipates the threats nicely. He is comfortable on the ball and sends good passes. He remains calm and composed under pressure apart from possessing leadership skills.
Real Madrid not keen on Manuel Akanji
Real Madrid have dealt with numerous problems in the defensive pack this season. With their recurring fitness concerns, they surely need some reinforcement in the summer.
Manuel Akanji, whose contract runs until 2027, is willing to accept a new challenge. He will fancy a move to the Whites in the summer. However, the Spanish outfit have decided against bringing him given his age and ongoing contract.
Real Madrid maintains an unsaid rule of bringing only those players who can establish themselves for a decade. Moreover, they will prefer running behind the players who are near to contract expiration. Like they are making advanced moves for Liverpool’s right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will become a free agent following this season.
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