Arsenal could finally land Manuel Akanji after Borussia Dortmund reportedly told the Switzerland player he is free to leave this summer.
Akanji has been at the Westfalenstadion since January 2018. Dortmund paid FC Basel £19.35million for him, as per transfermarkt, and he has gone on to reach 156 outings for Dortmund.
In that time, the German outfit have won one German cup and one German super cup. They have also finished second in the Bundesliga three times but have been unable to end Bayern Munich’s winning streak, which is now up to 10 straight league titles.
Akanji played 36 times in all competitions last term, with most of those coming at centre-back.
Despite his importance to manager Edin Terzic, Dortmund have apparently come to the decision to sell him.
According to Sky Germany, Akanji is one of several players set to be sold by BVB this summer.
He may fall down the pecking order due to Niklas Sule’s arrival and Dortmund chiefs don’t feel he is required in the squad.
A transfer makes sense this summer due to Akanji’s contract situation. His terms expire next year and he is unwilling to renew.
Dortmund reach Manuel Akanji decision
As such, Dortmund would rather sell now than risk a free-transfer exit at the end of next season.
The 26-year-old will be allowed to leave as long as a suitable bid comes in. The report doesn’t reveal how much Dortmund will accept.
But as Akanji’s contract is running down it shouldn’t be a massive fee.
Arsenal have been tracking the defender since 2020 and could finally make their move thanks to Dortmund’s stance.
Sport Witness state the Gunners are one of the clubs who will be keeping a keen eye on the situation, and this may result in an offer.
Arsenal already have strong centre-half options including the likes of Ben White, Gabriel, Rob Holding and the returning William Saliba.
But Juve are relentless in their pursuit of Gabriel and this could force Arsenal to consider signing a replacement. Akanji would be a good fit given his Bundesliga and Champions League knowhow.
Akanji is in his prime at 26. But Arsenal have proven they are willing to give young players a chance and this could lead them to Josko Gvardiol instead.
Reports state Arsenal are rivalling Spurs and Manchester City to sign the 20-year-old RB Leipzig star.