Josko Gvardiol, Savinho, John Stones, Manuel Akanji. (PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Manchester City are preparing for another busy and potentially transformative summer transfer window, with several players expected to depart as Pep Guardiola begins fine-tuning his squad for the next cycle of success.
After another demanding campaign filled with domestic and European commitments, City’s hierarchy are understood to be open to strategic exits as part of their long-standing approach of refreshing the squad while maintaining competitiveness at the highest level.
A number of senior figures — including Bernardo Silva and John Stones — and fringe players such as James Trafford and Savinho are already being linked with moves away, as the club looks to balance continuity with evolution at the Etihad.
Now, it has been confirmed that another player will definitely be moving on permanently this summer, bringing an end to his Manchester City spell following a successful loan move abroad.
Akanji to Join Inter Permanently
Manuel Akanji is set to complete a permanent transfer to Inter Milan after the Italian champions activated their €15 million purchase clause following their Serie A title win.
The defender, who spent the season on loan in Italy, has impressed consistently enough to convince Inter to make the deal permanent, securing his long-term future at the San Siro.
The €15 million option, embedded in his loan agreement, automatically became compulsory once Inter sealed the league title, formally converting his temporary move into a full transfer.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development on X, stating: “Inter will now automatically trigger €15m buy clause for Manuel Akanji after winning Serie A title. Man City sell the defender on permanent basis.”
Akanji’s departure fits into City’s broader transfer strategy, with the club often sanctioning exits when players seek regular starting opportunities elsewhere, while also ensuring squad flexibility and financial balance for future windows.
At Inter, the defender is expected to play a key role moving forward, with the club viewing him as a reliable and experienced option for both domestic and European competition.
Pep Guardiola had previously praised the defender highly, describing him as “magnificent” during his time at the Etihad, underlining the respect he maintained within the squad even as his long-term future shifted away from Manchester.
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