Manchester United are ahead of the queue for Achraf Hakimi as they could leapfrog Chelsea for the Paris Saint-Germain star.
Football Insider insists Manchester United lead the race to sign Achraf Hakimi, who could leave PSG in the summer. Chelsea have had a long-standing interest in the Morocco international. But their situation could force them to bow out of the chase for the £50-60 million-rated full-back.
Achraf Hakimi continues to have a good season personally. But he will fondly remember the run with Morocco to the World Cup semi-final more than the exploits with Paris Saint-Germain. The French champions had paid huge amounts of money for the full-back in the hope of becoming a European superpower.
However, with the current crop of players, they have not conquered their objectives, which has led them to plan for a rebuild in the summer. While they are reportedly prepared to invest significantly, PSG could sell some top stars, including Hakimi.
There’s no shortage of interest in the Morocco international. But only a handful of sides could pay what’s required to sign the £50-60 million-rated full-back. Chelsea have been keen for some time, but they have problems to deal with before finding the cash for Hakimi.
The Blues already have Reece James and Malo Gusto, who will join them in the summer. With the right-back position more or less secured on paper, only a new twist could allow Chelsea to plot a fresh move for Hakimi. There’s interest from Real Madrid in James. And if he gets sold, then the Morocco star could become their primary replacement target.
With their contingent situation, Manchester United could leapfrog Chelsea in the race for Hakimi. The £50-60 million-rated full-back may fall within their range as Erik ten Hag looks to revamp the right-back position.
After spending the bare minimum in January, Manchester United could have the necessary budget to improve multiple areas of their squad. With Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s future doubtful, they will look at a high-profile name as a replacement for the English full-back.
Hakimi remains a top-notch option for Ten Hag, and his age profile points towards a long-term investment. The Morocco international could consider moving to Old Trafford, particularly if they qualify for the Champions League.
Manchester United are certainly looking at other options in the market. But if Hakimi becomes available, he will climb up to the top of their list. Meanwhile, the Red Devils will look to open talks with PSG to come to a consensus on the fee for the Morocco international.
Despite Manchester United leapfrogging their rivals, Chelsea remains a firm contender. Much will happen in the summer. But if PSG decide to sell, Hakimi will have plenty of lucrative options to continue his career.
