Achraf Hakimi has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Chelsea with the future of Reece James uncertain as Manchester City and Real Madrid continue to salivate over the fullback.
Chelsea are in desperate need to sign defenders this summer with close to four defenders expected to depart once the transfer window officially opens
Chelsea are keeping tabs on Paris Saint-Germain’s fullback Achraf Hakimi with the hope of bringing him to England this summer. The Blues already have one of the best right-backs in Reece James, but his future is still uncertain.
A host of top clubs are bidding to land the English defender, with Manchester City, the latest entrants. Real Madrid have also in the past expressed interest in signing James.
The Mirror reports that Thomas Tuchel has cancelled his holiday plans to lay the groundwork for next season. Chelsea can now approach players after the ownership crisis was resolved. Todd Boehly took over officially and is widely expected to fund Tuchel’s transfer targets.
Hakimi has now been placed high on the list with Chelsea looking to rebuild with a host of many defenders departing. Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen will be leaving on free transfers, while Cesar Azpilicueta and Marco Alonso are also keen to quit the club.
Tuchel worked with Hakimi during his stint at Borussia Dortmund. The Moroccan has been at a host of top clubs and has impressed both as a wingback and as a right back.
Chelsea will however, first hold talks with Reece James with the intent of extending his contract. James has been a solid performer since his breakthrough season under Frank Lampard. This season, injuries have kept him in and out of the team, but he still grabbed six goals and 10 assists in 39 appearances.
