Arsenal target Achraf Hakimi is “very close” to joining Premier League rivals Chelsea with Calciomercato reporting talks regarding a massive deal for the Inter Milan full-back are advancing.
With the Kroenkes looking to claw back some popularity among a fanbase that had grown tired long before the Super League power-grab, it seems Arsenal’s chiefs are on the charm offensive as the transfer window hots up.
According to 90Min, Mikel Arteta has been handed a war chest in the region of £250 million as the Gunners boss looks to add some much-needed quality, character and depth to a side that will be without European football for the first time in 25 years next season.
But while deals for the likes of Ben White, Sambi Lokonga, Eduardo Camavinga and even James Maddison appear to be making progress, the same can’t be said of Arsenal’s attempts to lure arguably the finest right-back in Europe to the Emirates – and yes, we’re including Trent Alexander-Arnold in that.
Will Arsenal miss out on Hakimi as Chelsea enter the race?
Real Madrid may not have been able to find a place in their squad for Hakimi but Inter Milan certainly did.
Blessed with searing pace and the energy to run all day long – Hakimi would make a Japanese bullet train resemble a rusty old GNER – the Morocco international contributed seven goals and 11 assists as Inter Milan secured their first Serie A title in a decade last season.
But, with the Nerazzurri in a dire financial situation, it looks certain that Hakimi will be sold.
AS claimed Arteta was backing Arsenal’s pursuit of a man who would be an undoubted upgrade on the departing Hector Bellerin.
According to reports in Italy, however, Hakimi is heading to London – but not to Arsenal.
An agreement with Chelsea is “very close”. The Blues are expected to up their bid to somewhere in the region of £60 million.
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