Reports: PSG Interested in Achraf Hakimi

Ever since the grim details of Inter’s financial straits were revealed Tuesday, speculation has abounded over who could be the Nerazzurri’s sacrifice on the transfer block. Inter must coup a reported €80 million by August and according to both Gazzetta and Sky, Achraf Hakimi could be the one to raise those much-needed funds.

Paris Saint-Germain is the Moroccan’s main suitor so far, though Inter is understandably asking for a huge fee. Hakimi has proven worth every penny the Nerazzurri shipped to Real Madrid last summer and at 22 years old, his value will only rise. He was a crucial part of Inter’s Scudetto victory, contributing seven goals and eight assists in all comps. The right flank has been an area of need for Inter ever since Maicon and Hakimi seemed like the long-term fix. It would be a tough blow to see him leave after only one season in Milan, especially such a promising debut campaign as his. But for the amount that’s been reported, selling Hakimi would take care of the majority of required sales and keep the core of the team intact. Losing Lukaku, Barella, or any of the back-three would hurt even more than Hakimi.

As for how this would affect Simone Inzaghi’s planning, Manuel Lazzari, Lazio’s right wing-back, was one of the biancocelesti’s key players. Inter would have to bring in a cheaper replacement to slot into Inzaghi’s system such as Valentino Lazaro or Alessandro Florenzi. In short, a clear downgrade on Hakimi no matter which way you look at it. But Hakimi’s exit may be unavoidable to keep Inter afloat. With luck, though, he’ll be the only member of the starting XI to leave this summer.