Man City Eyes Galatasaray Star as Transfer Talks Heat Up

Manchester City are engaged in discussions with Galatasaray regarding a possible transfer for center-back Manuel Akanji, as the Premier League champions remain willing to part ways with the 30-year-old defender.

After investing heavily in players like Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki during the summer window—both making impressive Premier League debuts—City are now focused on streamlining their roster ahead of the transfer deadline.

Pep Guardiola has called for player departures following concerns about his squad size, with the Spanish manager stating it's "not healthy" to maintain such a large group of players after Saturday's Premier League season opener against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Jack Grealish and James McAtee have already departed, and additional fringe players are anticipated to leave, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Manuel Akanji could be among those heading for the exit door amid Galatasaray's pursuit before September's transfer deadline.

The Turkish club have made contact with City and the defender's representatives regarding a potential move, though Akanji has not yet reached a final decision about the transfer. Romano has also indicated that City are keeping their options open regarding the deal.

The eight-time Premier League winners currently possess six center-back options, with Akanji alongside Rúben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Aké, Joško Gvardiol and Abdukodir Khusanov in their defensive ranks. Guardiola is expected to sanction at least one departure this summer to trim his squad numbers.

Galatasaray have also submitted an £8.6 million ($11.7 million) offer for City keeper Ederson, who has remained on their radar throughout the summer. Both clubs continue negotiations over the transfer, with City looking to bring in Paris Saint-Germain's Gianluigi Donnarumma as their Brazilian goalkeeper's replacement.