Sebastian Kehl confirms Manuel Akanji does not want to extend Borussia Dortmund contract
By Tushar Bahl
Manuel Akanji is set to leave Borussia Dortmund this summer after Sebastian Kehl confirmed that the defender does not want to extend his contract.
It has been heavily reported in recent months that Manuel Akanji will not be extending his Borussia Dortmund contract, which expires at the end of next season. Now incoming sporting director Sebastian Kehl has confirmed that the Swiss international does not want to sign a contract extension with the Black and Yellows.
"In an interview with WAZ, Kehl said: “Manuel has a contract until 2023 and does not want to extend it. At the moment there is nothing new. We are in close contact with him and his agent and are waiting to see what happens now.”"
Borussia Dortmund will now look to try and sell Akanji this summer in order to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.
The 26 year old reportedly wants to take on a new challenge, and is said to be attracting the interest of Manchester United and Juventus. The Italian giants are looking to replace the departing Giorgio Chiellini. And reports claim that they are ahead in the race to sign Akanji.
Manuel Akanji has been one of Borussia Dortmund’s most consistent performers this season. So losing him would be a big blow for the club. But Dortmund have already strengthened their defence ahead of next season with the signings of Niklas Süle (Bayern Munich), and Nico Schlotterbeck (SC Freiburg).
Next. What will new signing Niklas Süle bring to Borussia Dortmund?. dark
Borussia Dortmund are still in the market for a new striker to replace Erling Haaland, a defensive midfielder to replace Axel Witsel, a full-back, and a new back-up goalkeeper. And the hope will be that the potential sale of Akanji can help free up funds for new signings.