Chelsea handed a major boost in race for Serie A star as competitors switch targets

Transfer News: Chelsea handed boost in Achraf Hakimi chase

According to transfer news from Express, Chelsea have received a boost in their pursuit of Achraf Hakimi. PSG, who were their main competitors for the Inter Milan defender, have decided to go after Serge Aurier instead. That leaves Chelsea with a clear path to get the Moroccan.

Hakimi came through the ranks at the Real Madrid academy and made his senior debut in 2017. However, it was during his two-year loan stint with Borussia Dortmund that the Moroccan truly announced himself. The 22-year-old then sealed a permanent transfer to Inter Milan in the summer of 2020.

Having signed for the Italian giants, Hakimi went on to play a critical role. The Nerazzurri went on to lift their first Serie A crown in eleven years, guided by Antonio Conte. Despite their title success, Inter Milan are mired in financial difficulties and may be forced to cash in on their key players in the summer.

Hakimi has, thus, emerged as a transfer target for Chelsea as well as PSG. However, Chelsea can get some respite in knowing that the Paris club are looking to bring in Serge Aurier of Tottenham. Mauricio Pochettino wants to work with the player again and that could see them divert their attention from Hakimi. This does come as a huge boost for Chelsea.

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• Chelsea increase bid to sign Achraf Hakimi from Inter Milan

For the last few weeks, both sides were after the Moroccan wing-back. They have had their offers rejected too. However, Chelsea will no doubt be happy that PSG are now going after Aurier. It is now entirely up to Chelsea to make a big push for Hakimi.