Manchester United have reportedly launched a transfer bid for Borussia Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji ahead of a possible summer swoop.
The Switzerland defender, 26, has been repeatedly linked with a move to Old Trafford recently, with interim manager Ralf Rangnick understood to be a big fan and harbouring a desire to bring him to Old Trafford. With the player’s current deal expiring in 2023, Borussia Dortmund must either extend his contract or cash in on him when the transfer window reopens.
According to SportBild (h/t Sport Witness), Manchester United are keen to sign Manuel Akanji and have made a contract offer. This has led to Borussia Dortmund looking out for potential replacements, with Freiburg’s Nico Schlotterbeck emerging as a target for the Black and Yellow outfit, the report adds.
Akanji has been a pillar of strength for the Borussia Dortmund defence for four years now, having arrived from Swiss club FC Basel in January 2018. The 26-year-old has performed consistently in the Bundesliga and his strong defensive displays have caught the eye of Manchester United.
Manuel Akanji to Manchester United—Smart move for the Red Devils?
Raphael Varane’s arrival from Real Madrid last summer was celebrated with a lot of fanfare in the red half of Manchester, with fans expecting the Frenchman to form a strong partnership with Harry Maguire at the heart of Manchester United’s backline. While Varane has done well in his debut Premier League season so far, he has failed to arrest the Red Devils’ defensive problems.
Man United have conceded 34 goals in 27 games—seven, two and 13 goals more than top-four rivals Arsenal, Tottenham and Wolves respectively. Harry Maguire has been a subject of criticism since the start of the season following poor displays, while Eric Bailly continues to struggle with injuries. Phil Jones is past his prime and is expected to leave at the end of the season, opening up space for a central defender in the squad.
The Red Devils’ interest in Manuel Akanji, in that regard, makes sense. With over 150 games for Borussia Dortmund, Akanji is not short of top-level experience and would certainly strengthen United’s backline. He could come in and compete with Maguire and Lindelof for a spot in the starting XI, whilst being an upgrade over the injury-stricken Bailly.
As well as having the versatility to play in a back three, the Switzerland international is technically solid and appears to be a good leader to boot. Man United have lacked leadership and organisation at the back throughout the season and someone of Akanji’s experience and know-how could help right the wrongs next season.
At 26, Manuel Akanji is at the perfect age to make the jump from Dortmund to a bigger club, which makes Manchester United the ideal destination.