Rabat – Premier League clubs Manchester United and Chelsea are considering an approach to sign Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi this summer, according to sports outlet TeamTalk.
Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has made the signing of a new full-back one of his top priorities for the summer transfer window, according to the outlet, with the club keeping an eye out for Hakimi in case any of their other planned moves do not work out.
“Hakimi fits the profile for the type of attack-minded full-back ten Hag is keen to add to his squad as he looks to build a side capable of challenging for the Premier League title,” TeamTalk explains.
Chelsea is another club looking to offer the Moroccan right-back a move, as they prepare for a squad overhaul to recover from what has been a massively disappointing season.
The Blues had previously tried to sign Hakimi prior to his move to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021. With ex-PSG boss Mauricio Pochettino heavily linked with the Chelsea job, their interest could be rekindled.
Although the team is planning to reduce the number of players on what is seen as a bloated squad, funds could be provided for signing Hakimi if Pochettino decides to pursue a deal, TeamTalk added.
Chelsea are also set to sell fellow Moroccan star Hakim Ziyech in the summer, especially as he was set to move to PSG on loan in the winter before the deal fell through due to paperwork mistakes.
Read also: Hakim Ziyech’s Transfer to PSG Fails Due to Chelsea’s Incorrect Paperwork
Although Hakimi, who impressed at the 2022 World Cup, has three more years in his contract with his current club, a move could still be possible according to the report.
PSG, who are facing pressure to reduce their wage spending in order to comply with financial fair play rules, could be letting some of their star players go this summer.
The club is also looking to change its recruitment strategy by focusing on young talents instead of big star names, in light of underwhelming European performances despite big transfer spending and star names on the squad.
