Transfer profile: Manuel Akanji

Transfer profile: Manuel Akanji

By Jonny Bray
Swiss star Manuel Akanji has been linked with a move to Arsenal all summer, with Manchester United also reportedly in for the Borussia Dortmund defender.
Akanji has been a consistent presence in an otherwise hectic Dortmund defence.
He has made 119 Bundesliga appearances for the German side since joining from Swiss giants Basel in 2018.
The German club have produced some of the biggest names in the game over the last decade, but there is the infamous Bundesliga tax to account for.
So, should Arsenal sign the centre-back, or is he better left alone?

Arsenal should sign him

Akanji is an experienced professional who is well respected amongst Dortmund fans.
He is one of the best distributors in Germany and can be relied upon to play an attractive style of football.
He is also strong with both feet, so he can easily play on either side of the defence.
Considering Gabriel and Ben White would most likely be Mikel Arteta's first choice, it would be great to have cover who is as strong as a left-sided centre-back as they are on the right.
He also has tremendous experience on the international stage, where he has been key to some impressive Swiss performances over the years.
He has 41 caps for Switzerland and has competed at the World Cup and European Championships.
Arsenal have a young side, so this sort of tactical nouse could come in handy if the Gunners find themselves in another race for the top four late in the season.

Arsenal shouldn't sign him

Akanji might be technically brilliant, but he might not have the strength or positioning to play at the top of the Premier League.
The Dortmund star has been caught out on a few occasions, with questions raised about his positioning.
And to make matters worse, since a hip injury a few years, Akanji has struggled to rekindle his best form.
At 27, the Swiss defender could be past his prime.
Do Arsenal really need to be signing another big name on high wages who is past their prime?
Would Akanji even want to join Arsenal?
He would not be guaranteed a start spot in Arteta's side and would earn less money than he would at Manchester United.
So this signing is not as clear-cut as you would first think, and the Gunners need to be careful before throwing vast sums of money in Dortmund's direction.

Conclusion

Arsenal should not sign Akanji because it would stink of a panic buy.
The player is past his prime, unlikely to improve, yet still commands a significant transfer fee.
Versatility and depth have been at the heart of Arsenal's business this summer, and while Akanji may fit that bill, the potential risk of the transfer significantly outweigh the rewards.
It is a shame because a few years ago, Akanji would have added a lot to the side.
However, if it is cover the Gunners are after, they should be going for someone younger, cheaper and with more potential.
Photo Credit: Getty Images

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