While Chelsea are frantically working to get signings over the line before the summer transfer window shuts close, the Premier League giants are also keen on offloading a few of their deadwood. One of those players is Hakim Ziyech, the Moroccan winger who has fallen down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.
The 29-year-old initially joined the Blues from Ajax amid much excitement, having played a key role in the Dutch giants' brilliant UEFA Champions League campaign in 2018/2019. However, in the two seasons he has been in London, the attacker has failed to impress, with his moments of magic being few and far between.
A return to Ajax appeared destined, with his agent and brother Abdullah hinting at a second spell with the Eredivisie champions. However, much to their despair, two Premier League giants are now in the running for Ziyech as well.
The first is Manchester United, which isn't new, as Erik ten Hag is in need of a winger and could make a move to reunite with the Moroccan. It should be noted that Ajax sensation Antony is the no.1 priority at Old Trafford, but with his Dutch employers demanding a huge transfer fee, the Red Devils could turn their interest in Hakim into something concrete.
The other club being linked with a move for the Chelsea flop is London rivals Tottenham. This is according to Dutch daily newspaper AD, claiming that Antonio Conte is keen on staging talks with the player this week.
Spurs' interest is understandable. While Antonio's current attacking trio of Harry Kane, Heung-min Son, and Dejan Kulusevski is one of the best in the league, Richarlison is the only notable back-up option should one of the three pick up an injury. Hakimi could deputize for – and possibly challenge – one of the two wingers.
Nonetheless, given that there will be a lack of playing time in north London, a return to the Netherlands seems more likely. Ajax will first need to find a resolution to the Antony debacle, but with Manchester United tipped to return with another bid for the Selecao talent, a domino effect could ensue soon.
