Inter could try to sign Borussia Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji next summer in the event that they miss out on his signature this time around.

This according to Italian news outlet FCInterNews, who report that the Nerazzurri could decide to pursue the 26-year-old in a similar fashion to how they signed Andre Onana in the event that he does not depart from Dortmund by the end of the transfer window.

Inter have been interested in signing Akanji to complete their defensive depth for next season, but with Dortmund never having gone below €15 million in their asking price he would be out of reach this summer.

However, the Nerazzurri’s interest in the Swiss international does not end here even if they cannot convince the Schwarzgelben on a more affordable deal or a loan move this summer.

Should Akanji stay at Dortmund on September 1, it will not change the fact that he is going into the final season of his contract having indicated that he has no intention of extending.

Inter could look to agree a deal with the 26-year-old in January when he is able to start negotiating with other clubs, as they did with Onana, as they have considered Akanji a long-term target for the defense for some time.