Chelsea are monitoring the situation of Paris Saint-Germain right-back Achraf Hakimi ahead of the summer transfer window as they prepare for a busy summer. The Blues are set to make a host of signings this summer but the Morocco international has emerged as a surprise target.
Thomas Tuchel has cancelled his summer holiday in order to devote his attentions to summer preparations. He has already confirmed that Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen will leave this summer but there could be more big name departures too with the futures of Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta up in the air.
As such, it is no surprise that a number of the world's best defensive talents have been linked with moves to Stamford Bridge. Centre-backs Jules Kounde and Josko Gvardiol are two of their priority signings but bringing in reinforcements for both Reece James and Ben Chilwell at wing-back is also of high importance.
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Chelsea were left exposed when the duo missed large chunks of last season with injury so signing high-quality reinforcements is a sensible move. But there are also concerns over the future of James, with Manchester City and Real Madrid both reportedly holding an interest in the England international.
The Athletic reported on Monday that Chelsea are preparing to hold contract talks with the 22-year-old but may be preparing for his potential departure further down the line. They also report that Hakimi's situation in Paris is being monitored too as they consider a surprise transfer for the wing-back.
The 23-year-old made 41 appearances for the French champions this season, scoring four goals and providing six assists. It followed a brilliant final season with Inter Milan that saw him score seven goals and provide 11 assists, catching the eye of Chelsea in the process.
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