Crystal Palace ‘Interested’ in Signing Man City Star | OneFootball

Milan Eye City Defender Akanji

AC Milan are pressing ahead with efforts to sign Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji, according to Sky Sports. Talks are progressing positively between the clubs, although the move ultimately depends on the player’s willingness to switch to Serie A.

As reported, “AC Milan are working on a deal to sign Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji, according to Sky in Italy.” Milan believe an agreement with City can be reached smoothly, but they will only proceed if Akanji signals his intent to join.

Palace Monitor Situation

The Switzerland international is also drawing interest closer to home. “Crystal Palace are also interested in the Switzerland international.” This indicates that Akanji has more than one potential pathway, with Premier League continuity or a fresh challenge in Italy both on the table.

Palace’s involvement reflects their ambition to strengthen defensively and add leadership at the back. Akanji’s experience at the highest level, including Champions League football and international tournaments, makes him an attractive option.

Milan’s Urgency and Tactical Needs

AC Milan’s sporting director Igli Tare has spoken openly about the situation. Asked about Akanji, he admitted to Sky in Italy, “We haven’t convinced him yet.” He went on to explain, “The change in formation has put us in a bit of difficulty, so we need to do our best in the last 72 hours to bring in an experienced player. Akanji has the profile, as well as the quality to play for Milan.”

This candour highlights Milan’s immediate need for a reliable defensive presence. With a switch in formation stretching resources, they view Akanji as the ideal candidate to provide stability and quality.

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Decision Rests with Akanji

For Akanji, the decision is as much about timing and ambition as it is about the clubs involved. At 30, he remains in his prime and has proven himself under Pep Guardiola at City, contributing to multiple trophy-winning campaigns. A move to Milan would bring fresh challenges, a new league, and the opportunity to anchor a historic side seeking to reassert itself in Europe.

Palace, while not offering the same continental platform, could give Akanji consistency in the Premier League and a central role in their defensive project.

The outcome depends on Akanji’s appetite for change and whether Milan’s historic pull outweighs his current Premier League standing. With the transfer window ticking down, clarity will be needed quickly.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester City fans, the potential departure of Manuel Akanji is met with mixed feelings. He has been dependable, versatile across defensive positions and an important figure in Guardiola’s rotation. Yet City’s squad depth is unrivalled, and letting him go may open space for younger talents. Many City fans would thank him for his service but trust the club’s strategy.

For Milan supporters, this pursuit represents ambition. Akanji is experienced, tactically disciplined and used to winning. His arrival would strengthen the backline and help address recent inconsistency. Fans will welcome the intent but also recognise the challenge of convincing him to leave a dominant City side.

Palace supporters would be realistic. Securing Akanji would be a coup, but persuading him to choose Selhurst Park over San Siro is an uphill battle. Still, their interest shows the club’s ambition to attract higher-calibre talent.

Overall, this is a transfer story where the player holds the cards. Fans from all three clubs will be watching closely as the final days of the window unfold.