Tottenham make late offer – Spurs bid €5m more than rivals and have player preference

The final days of the summer transfer window often feel like a high-stakes poker game, and one of the most intriguing hands is being played over the future of Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji.

What began as a straightforward pursuit by AC Milan has now evolved into a full-blown transfer battle, with Tottenham Hotspur entering the fray with a compelling offer that could tip the scales in their favor.

For much of the window, the Italian giants appeared to be the clear frontrunners for Akanji’s signature. Milan’s sporting director, Igli Tare, has been open about the club’s need for an experienced defender, publicly confirming their interest in the Swiss international.

He explained that a recent tactical shift had left the team short-handed at the back, making Akanji a priority target in these final days.

The Serie A side were confident they could secure a deal with Manchester City for around €15 million, plus additional bonuses, and had even presented initial terms to the player’s representatives.

However, Tottenham’s late intervention has complicated matters significantly. According to reports, Spurs have submitted an offer of approximately €20 million €5 million more than Milan’s proposed package.

This financial advantage is coupled with another crucial factor: the player’s own preference. Akanji is said to be keen on remaining in the Premier League, where he has established himself as a proven and reliable defender.

The opportunity to continue competing at the highest level of English football, under a manager like Thomas Frank and with a ambitious project like Tottenham’s, holds strong appeal.

This puts AC Milan in a difficult position. While they remain one of the most prestigious clubs in world football, they cannot easily match the financial terms offered by Tottenham.

The Premier League’s economic power often gives its clubs a decisive edge in these situations, and this case is no different.

Additionally, Akanji’s comfort and familiarity with the English game make a move within the league feel like a more natural step.

For Tottenham, securing Akanji would represent a smart and strategic piece of business. At 30 years old, he brings a wealth of experience, including multiple Premier League titles and Champions League success.

His versatility—he can play as a center-back or full-back—would provide valuable cover and competition across the defense.

With the season already underway and European commitments on the horizon, adding a player of his caliber could make a significant difference.

As the weekend approaches, all parties are waiting for Akanji’s final decision. Milan have asked for an answer by Saturday, but Tottenham’s superior offer and the player’s preference may have already decided the outcome.

For the fans, it’s a tense waiting game, but one that highlights the ambition of their club. In the unpredictable world of football transfers, sometimes the best moves are the ones you make at the last minute.