Nigel James revealed that his son, Reece James, talked to him about the transfer links between Chelsea and Achraf Hakimi in the summer..

Chelsea dealt a setback in pursuit of key €70m-rated defensive target

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Transfer News: Chelsea suffer setback in pursuit of Achraf Hakimi

According to transfer news from Express, Chelsea have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Achraf Hakimi. The Serie A champions have refused any swap offer for their star man with Chelsea looking to offer Marcos Alonso. Inter Milan only want the cash and will also lower their asking price.

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.

Achraf Hakimi of FC Internazionale in action
Achraf Hakimi is a transfer target for Chelsea (imago Images)

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. While Chelsea have players who can do well in the wing-back role on the right, Hakimi is viewed as one who can slot in seamlessly.

Nonetheless, the deal will be far from straightforward. Chelsea were initially looking to offer a cash plus player deal. Marcos Alonso was likely to be offloaded but Inter have now refused any such swaps. They want a full cash deal and are also willing to lower their asking price to €70m.

Chelsea v Atletico Madrid – UEFA Champions League – Round of 16 – Second Leg – Stamford Bridge Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel right and Marcos Alonso after the Champions League round of 16 second leg match at Stamford Bridge, London. Picture date: Wednesday March 17, 2021..

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While it may not be a setback per se, Chelsea will now have to offer the full amount in cash and cannot offload a fringe player. A cash plus player deal would have solved those issues in one go. Nonetheless, there will be some good news as Inter are willing to lower their asking price for Hakimi. Chelsea should capitalise on the same given the chance.