Victor Osimhen has reportedly taken matters into his own hands by making a personal phone call to Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji in an attempt to lure him to Galatasaray this summer, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.
The Nigerian forward, who sealed a permanent €75m (£65m) move to the Turkish champions after a successful loan from Napoli, has become actively involved in the club’s recruitment drive.
According to Yeni Acik, Osimhen reached out directly to Akanji to encourage him to make the switch to Istanbul. Galatasaray are targeting the Swiss centre-back as their third marquee signing following the arrivals of Osimhen and Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sané.
Akanji, 30, has struggled for regular minutes at Manchester City, with John Stones and Ruben Dias preferred in defence for the Premier League opener against Wolves. French journalist Santi Aouna reported that City values him at £18m, having signed him from Borussia Dortmund for £15m in September 2022. Galatasaray’s initial £15m offer was turned down, but negotiations remain ongoing.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed City’s stance: Guardiola is “open to selling Akanji as Guardiola wants [his] squad to be reduced.” Reports indicate that Galatasaray officials have already travelled to England to accelerate discussions.
Since arriving at the Etihad, Akanji has made 136 appearances, winning two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FA Cup, the FIFA Club World Cup, and other honours. His possible exit comes as part of Guardiola’s squad reshaping, with the coach admitting it is not “healthy” for elite players to remain on the fringes.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray are also said to be eyeing City goalkeeper Ederson as they race to reinforce their squad before the Champions League registration deadline.