Barcelona interested in PSG defender, loan move with option to buy being considered

In a surprise development, as reported by El Chiringuito TV, Barcelona are considering a shock move for Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi to bolster their right-back spot. The Catalans are considering signing him on a loan deal with an option to buy.

Hakimi, a former Real Madrid defender, joined PSG in the summer of 2021 after stints at Borussia Dortmund (loan) and Inter Milan. The 23-year-old has been an ever-present in the side since arriving at Parc des Princes and has made 44 appearances, bagging five goals and six assists.

Hakimi has started each of PSG’s three games in all competitions in the new season and has scored a goal as well. A modern-day full-back, he is known for his attacking contributions pushing forward from the right-back slot.

Barcelona are in the market for a new right-back after Dani Alves was released upon the expiry of his contract. Sergino Dest has been made available for a transfer as manager Xavi Hernandez does not trust him.

A move for Cesar Azpilicueta had been in the works, but the Chelsea captain made a U-turn and decided to sign a new contract at Stamford Bridge, forcing Barça to look at other options.

Juan Foyth of Villarreal and Borussia Dortmund’s Thomas Meunier have been considered as alternatives while a move for former La Masia defender Hector Bellerin from Arsenal is also on the cards.

Now, Hakimi has also popped up on the radars of the club, although a move looks extremely unlikely. For starters, the 23-year-old’s past association with Real Madrid could be a hindrance while negotiating with PSG will not be easy either.

Furthermore, he is a close friend of Kylian Mbappe, who decided to stay put at PSG which could convince Hakimi to continue as well. And on top of that, the Moroccan will not come cheap either.

So, despite the links, it looks like an extremely unlikely prospect that Hakimi moves to Barcelona in the ongoing transfer window.