Through official channels, Swiss champions FC Basel have announced the signing of Manuel Akanji from Winterthur, with effect from July 1. <br /><br />The central defender has appended his signature to a 3 + 1 year contract with the five times in a row Super League champions.<br /><br />Though the 19 - year - old is eligible to sport the jersey of the Nigeria national team, he turns out for Switzerland&rsquo;s Under 20 and Under 21 teams presently.<br /><br />FC Basel have decided to offer him a contract after he was extensively scouted by their representatives this season.<br /><br />Manuel Akanji has played 27 games in all competitions this term for second - tier side Winterthur.<br /><br />Photo Credit : bluewin.ch<br /><br />&nbsp;<br /><br /><br />