Further update on Chelsea's pursuit of Achraf Hakimi

I've connected with a source close to the player for further info...

Yesterday you would have seen my article, along with a few other insider reports, suggesting that Achraf Hakimi is close to joining Chelsea.

This morning this was then backed up by a number of reliable Italian sources including Gianluca Di Marzio and Angelo Mangiante. Sky Sports UK are now also reporting Chelsea are progressing with the deal.

Before I move on, I must reiterate, this does not mean that Hakimi to Chelsea is a done deal, yet. However, it is looking promising and things are advancing.

In my report yesterday, I explained that I did not have too many of the details surrounding the deal, and in terms of details, that is still the case, other than knowing it has progressed positively over the last 24 hours after further talks and a deal is now close.

If the Italian reports are to be believed, Marcos Alonso could become part of the deal, but I’ve not had that confirmed or denied as of yet.

Please remember at this point, things can always change right up until you see him holding that Chelsea shirt, you must understand this is normal in these deals - I mean, just look at how many managers Tottenham have pretty much announced in the last two weeks, right!?

Anyway, I have spoken to a source close to the player and I’m able to bring more positive updates to Chelsea’s pursuit of Hakimi.

My friend and colleague, Jamie Wilkinson, has typed up some information on the situation for Caught Offside.

Today he has spoken to his trusted and close source to the player once again to bring further significant info for me to release.

Here is what our source has told us..

“The feeling was that he [Hakimi] was going to be joining PSG, Leonardo had been on the phone with his agent, they submitted a bid, Hakimi was even asking his family of recommendations of places to house-hunt in Paris.

“That's all changed now. Radio silence from PSG after the first bid was submitted.

“While there is hope that PSG will come back with another bid, it's more hope than expectation.

“He's told his family that he's no longer expecting to move to Paris to be with them. Chelsea are showing real intent in the negotiations.

“Hakimi and his family are now seeing a move to Chelsea as the most plausible deal to be done. Personal terms won't be a problem, Hakimi is happy to move to Chelsea even if PSG were his first choice.

“Further to this, we are also told he is looking for a forever club. He was very settled in Madrid, it was his home. Leaving for Germany was hard, but having two years there helped. He loved playing for Inter under Conte, but never really settled in Milan. Wherever he goes next, he wants to settle there with his partner and his son.”

So as you can see, again, this is positive news.

But the deal is not done yet, and Chelsea will have to now look to get this one over the line and put off any late moves back in from PSG.

Simon Phillips