Manuel Akanji’s Manchester City future is hanging in the balance, with Crystal Palace making an official approach for the Switzerland international. The 30-year-old defender has already been the subject of intense interest from Galatasaray, who according to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu have an agreement in place with City and are simply awaiting the player’s decision within the next 48 hours.
Sky Sports confirmed that Palace have stepped into the race, with Oliver Glasner keen to bolster his defence amid Liverpool’s growing interest in Marc Guehi. The South London club are preparing for the possibility of losing their England international and see Akanji as a ready-made replacement.
The centre-back has not featured for City in either of their two opening Premier League matches, left on the bench against Wolves and omitted entirely from the defeat to Tottenham. That absence only fuels the sense that Pep Guardiola’s side are open to a sale before the window closes.
With Galatasaray pushing hard for a deal and Palace circling, Akanji faces a defining decision over his next chapter. Will he gamble on staying in England, or chase Champions League football with the Turkish giants?
Why Crystal Palace Want Akanji — Urgently
For Oliver Glasner, the situation is clear: Marc Guehi’s future is in jeopardy. With Liverpool strongly linked and preparing a move, Palace must line up a successor. Akanji brings not only Premier League pedigree but also international experience, with over 60 caps for Switzerland.
His profile suits Glasner’s system, where centre-backs are tasked with stepping into midfield phases and building from deep. Akanji’s composure on the ball and tactical versatility make him a logical target — and at 30, he offers leadership to a squad that could soon lose its defensive leader.
Could Galatasaray Beat Palace to the Punch?
Galatasaray are no strangers to deadline-day drama. Having already reached an agreement with City, they are now waiting on Akanji’s final word. The Turkish champions are also closing in on Monaco’s Wilfred Singo, showing their intent to refresh the back line for another Champions League push.
If Akanji accepts their offer, Palace’s interest could be short-lived. But the lure of Premier League football may still hold weight, particularly if Glasner presents him as Guehi’s replacement and a guaranteed starter in South London.
“Galatasaray have done their part — the contract is ready. Now it is up to Akanji. Within 48 hours we will know the outcome.” — Yağız Sabuncuoğlu
Manuel Akanji 2024/25 Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Manuel Akanji |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 26 |
| Goals | o |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 94% |
source: sofascore match data – 26 August 2025
The lack of minutes so far underlines Akanji’s precarious situation at City. Despite being a reliable performer last season, Guardiola appears ready to move on, leaving the Swiss defender weighing up his options.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William sees this as a high-stakes window for Palace:
“Palace can’t afford to lose Guehi without a replacement of equal calibre. Akanji is exactly that: strong, composed and versatile. But they’re up against the clock and against Galatasaray, who already have an agreement in place. The player’s decision will be crucial, and Palace’s pitch has to be convincing.”
He added: “For Akanji, the choice is between staying in a top-five league with guaranteed exposure or joining a club that will almost certainly give him Champions League football. Both have merit — but time is running out.”
Key Insights
- Crystal Palace have made an official approach for Akanji.
- Galatasaray already have an agreement with Manchester City.
- Player expected to decide his future within 48 hours.
- Akanji hasn’t featured in City’s opening two league matches.
- Liverpool’s Guehi pursuit could trigger Palace’s move.
What’s Next
The next 48 hours are decisive. If Akanji accepts Galatasaray’s contract proposal, the move will go through swiftly, ending Palace’s hopes. However, if the Swiss defender hesitates, Palace’s approach could gain momentum, particularly if Guehi edges closer to a Liverpool transfer.
For Manchester City, the priority is clarity — Guardiola wants his squad finalised ahead of the September schedule. With Akanji on the fringes, a swift resolution is expected.
Should Akanji choose Champions League football with Galatasaray — or remain in the Premier League with Palace?
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