Chelsea are involved in a transfer duel with Paris Saint-Germain in the pursuit of Inter Milan superstar Achraf Hakimi this summer.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Chelsea have approached Inter Milan regarding the potential switch for Achraf Hakimi. The Premier League giants are joined by Paris Saint-Germain, in the race to sign the coveted fullback, having already submitted an offer worth around €60 million.
The report further states that Chelsea do have the upper hand over PSG as Inter Milan are interested in two of their players in Emerson Palmieri and Andreas Christensen. They could even be included as part of the deal to sign Hakimi, provided both the clubs agree to such a deal.
The Blues reportedly value Emerson, who is a part of Italy’s squad for the upcoming European Championship, at around €20 million. There is no secret that the fullback is not wanted at Stamford Bridge, although the same cannot be said for Christensen, who is favoured by Thomas Tuchel.
The Dane even enjoyed a rise in stock following his performance in the Champions League final against Manchester City, after coming on as a replacement for Thiago Silva. It appears his performance has raised the eyebrows of Inter, with new coach Simone Inzaghi determined to find a long-term replacement for Milan Skriniar – linked with a switch to Real Madrid.
Chelsea’s interest in Hakimi, meanwhile, stems from their lack of options in the right-wingback position. Although Reece James has shown a lot of promise, Tuchel seeks to add competition, and perhaps more quality into the wide area, which serves as a vital part of his side’s build-up and transition play.
Formerly of Real Madrid, Hakimi has been one of Serie A’s best performers this past season, being involved in 17 goals in 37 matches. His offensive contributions were critical in helping Inter seal the Scudetto and put an end to Juventus’ dominance over Italian football.
The Moroccan international was also a major success at Tuchel’s former club Borussia Dortmund, forming a truly impeccable attacking partnership with Jadon Sancho, who is another Chelsea target, although the Englishman has reportedly agreed personal terms with Manchester United.
Either way, Hakimi’s potential arrival at Stamford Bridge is going to serve as a massive boost for Chelsea, though it might bring about the departure of Callum Hudson-Odoi. The winger has most recently been linked with a switch to Borussia Dortmund – as a potential candidate to replace Sancho next season.
