There is a fascinating subplot to Sunday’s Milan derby, with Manuel Akanji and Kony de Winter likely to move to opposing clubs in one of football’s classic sliding door moments, Tuttosport reports.
Inter Milan held serious discussions with Genoa over Derwent last summer before Milan suddenly brought the Belgian defender to the Rossoneri. According to Inter Milan News.
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At the same time, Milan also targeted Akanji and reached a preliminary loan agreement with Manchester City, with a purchase option of approximately 15 million euros.
The deal fell through Akanji Temple He himself vetoed the move, preferring Inter over Milan for the chance to play in the Champions League.
He eventually came to Pinetina as a replacement. Benjamin Pavard.
Derwent struggles at Milan, Inter happy with Akanji
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 13: Genoa’s Koni De Winter during the Serie A match between Verona and Genoa at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 13, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabatini/Getty Images)
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The contrast in results could not be starker. Akanji has become a cornerstone of Inter Milan’s defense this season, with Tuttosport describing his permanent signing as “a foregone conclusion, a mere formality that will automatically become a reality after winning the Serie A title”.
His performances, passing statistics and newfound goal threat make the €15 million purchase option look like exceptional value.
On Sunday, the two defenders will line up on either side of the city divide, each eventually reaching their chosen position or, in Der Winter’s case, Inter choosing not to pursue further.
What-ifs in football rarely work out so well.