Report claims Arsenal started transfer talks with Manuel Akanji in January, £22m deal possible

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Arsenal are reportedly set to make a move for Borussia Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji this summer, according to Fussball Transfers. 

It is suggested that the Swiss international is a long-term target for the Gunners and approaches were made both in last summer’s transfer window and in January. 

It is suggested that Akanji had actually ‘said goodbye’ to Dortmund last summer with a move to Arsenal seemingly done. However, PSG’s ransack for Abdou Diallo saw Dortmund short at the back and Akanji was retained. 

But this summer the German side are ready to try and move Akanji on to the market yet again with sporting director Michael Zorc hoping to receive a fee in the region of €25-€30 million (£22-£26.5m) for the player’s services. 

Arsenal reportedly made contact in January regarding a deal and Dortmund will be looking for a sale in the next transfer window. The Gunners will have to contend with competition from Lyon but Akanji is not a priority for the French side. 

Arsenal are already welcoming William Saliba to the club this summer after his one-year loan stay at Saint-Etienne. However, reports have suggested the Gunners want another long-term centre-back option to partner Saliba, with the likes of Axel Disasi, Eray Comert, and Unai Nunez recently linked. 

Akanji, at 24-years-old, might have the necessary blend of youth and experience to be a hit at Arsenal alongside their new French arrival.