Transfer News: Chelsea to raid Inter Milan for Achraf Hakimi
According to transfer news from The Athletic (subscription required), Chelsea are discussing the possibility of signing Achraf Hakimi. The Blues have long been interested in the Moroccan and could finally try to take advantage of the financial situation at Inter and sign him. PSG are also said to be after him.
Hakimi came through the ranks at the Real Madrid academy and made his senior debut in 2017. However, it was during his two-year loan stint with Borussia Dortmund that the Moroccan truly announced himself. He then sealed a permanent transfer to Inter Milan in the summer of 2020.
Having signed for the Italian giants, Hakimi went on to essay a critical role. The Nerazzurri went on to lift their first Serie A crown in eleven years, guided by Antonio Conte. Despite their title success, Inter Milan are mired in financial difficulties and may be forced to cash in on their key players in the summer.
Chelsea could use a specialist right-wingback
There has been an interesting development over the last few weeks. Tuchel used Reece James in a right-sided centre-back role which paid off handsomely. That may be suggestive that he may be playing there in the future. The problem with that is that Chelsea will need a younger wing-back than Azpilicueta to take his place.
Chelsea have been following Hakimi since his days at Real. He is a specialist right-wingback and Chelsea could do with a player of his calibre. Hakimi enjoyed a fine 2020/21 campaign. He finished with an amazing tally of seven goals and 10 assists from just 37 Serie A outings. That has seen the Chelsea hierarchy, scouts and Tuchel pondering over a move for him.
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Hakimi is just 22 years of age. Within this short time, he has played for some of the best clubs in Europe. It speaks volumes about his ability and development. He is someone who looks like the perfect fit for Tuchel’s setup. A move for him should be made at the earliest.