Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan are set to battle for Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji late in the summer window. That’s according to Sky Italia, and they indicate Tottenham’s interest in the centre-back is a concern for Milan.
On Friday, Gazzetta dello Sport reported Milan have a general agreement with Akanji but are yet to hold formal talks with Manchester City. Sky Italia plays this down, while the Serie A side still remain keen on signing the 30-year-old.
Milan sporting director Igli Tare has confirmed his side’s desire to sign the Manchester City player.
“This change in formation in the last few days has put us in a bit of trouble. In the next four or five days, we need to try to bring home an experienced player like Akanji: he can play for AC Milan. But it’s not easy,” he told Sky Italia.
The Rossoneri believe they can easily reach an agreement with Manchester City for €15m plus bonuses. They have submitted an initial offer to Akanji’s entourage and are expecting a response from him by Saturday.
Akanji, for his part, prefers to continue in the Premier League, where Tottenham are keen on signing him. Milan have to worry about Spurs’ interest as the report states the north London club have made an offer of around €20m.
The Europa League winners’ efforts make it a ‘difficult operation’ for the Italian club to sign the Switzerland international.
Tottenham are offering better terms that Milan to Manchester City. This, coupled with the defender’s preference would help Thomas Frank’s side secure his services.