Inter Milan wing-back Achraf Hakimi is the talk of the town right now, the man of the moment.
It’s not the first time he has become the subject of alleged transfer interest from Chelsea, we have been reported admirers for some time and I know for a fact he is a player who is highly regarded by Chelsea’s scouts and members of the board.
But are Chelsea really interested in signing him this summer?
Yes, is the short answer, they are.
Admittedly, this is a deal I am not too close to unfortunately, but I did check in for some information early last week when all this started coming out.
At that point, I was told Chelsea were yet to make an offer for Hakimi as it stood, but I believe things could have since developed a little.
Further to this, I’m told personal terms have been worked out with Hakimi and the move is ready to go on that side of things.
Our guy Dan McCarthy tweeted out on Sunday that he is told that PSG are closer to signing Hakimi as it stands. Of course, that can change fast.
If you believe the various reports flying around, then it is actually Chelsea who are favourites, and some reports in Italy have even suggested that Chelsea have made an improved offer to sign Hakimi on Sunday - Which involves Emerson Palmieri.
In the next breath though, they claim Inter want a cash only deal.
I’ve also seen some light whispers suggesting PSG are about to sign Spurs right back Serge Aurier. Again, at this point, just whispers, and I cannot confirm or deny these reports.
If, and a very massive IF these are true, then that would suggest Chelsea having a free run at Hakimi.
I’ll conclude, from what I know - Chelsea have a proposal on the table for Hakimi and have agreed personal terms with the player. But nothing appears to be advanced in the deal as it stands.
Simon Phillips