Borussia Dortmund planning to extend Manuel Akanji’s contract

Borussia Dortmund are planning to hand Manuel Akanji a contract extension, with the defender’s current deal set to run out at the end of next season. 

Manuel Akanji has established himself as one of Borussia Dortmund’s most important players this season. He has held the defence together on his own at times, and Dortmund would have been in a much worse position had it not been for his impressive performances. With his current contract set to expire at the end of next season, the Black and Yellows are keen to offer him an extension.

In an interview with SportBILD, Sebastian Kehl heaped praise on Akanji and confirmed that Borussia Dortmund would like to extend his contract.

"“Manuel is an absolutely key player for us, who has played in all the games when he has been fit. He is a very important factor for us in the defense and has developed really well. We have a lot confidence in his abilities, so of course we will try to extend his contract, which runs until 2023.”"

Ruhr Nachrichten reported earlier this month that Borussia Dortmund and Manuel Akanji are already in talks to extend the defender’s contract. According to SportBILD, the BVB bosses would like to hand the Switzerland international a contract extension until at least 2026. And they are also ready to offer him an annual salary of 7 million euros.

Akanji’s performances over the last 12 months have seen him earn praise from the likes of Giorgio Chiellini. And there will be no shortage of interested clubs if an agreement over a new contract cannot be reached between Borussia Dortmund and the defender in the coming months. Dortmund would likely be forced to sell Akanji in the summer if he decides not to sign a contract extension.

Akanji has made a total of 146 appearances for Borussia Dortmund since joining the club from FC Basel in January 2018.