Frank Lampard axes transfer move for Achraf Hakimi due to emerging Chelsea star

Reece James has prompted Chelsea to end their transfer interest in Achraf Hakimi, according to reports.

Chelsea were regarded as big admirers of Hakimi, who has spent the last two years on loan at Borussia Dortmund and is due to return to Real Madrid to discuss his future.

The Blues have already held talks with Hakimi about a possible switch to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Hakimi has a host of suitors and reportedly has a £50million release clause in his Real contract, but the Athletic claim Chelsea won’t be pushing to sign the full-back in the next transfer window.

James has made the step up to the senior squad this season and is rapidly improving under the guidance of Frank Lampard.

The 20-year-old has made 17 appearances in the Premier League this season and is battling to permanently dislodge captain Cesar Azpilicueta from his right-back position.

Lampard believes James has a massive future ahead of him, meaning Chelsea have halted their efforts to sign Hakimi.

Chelsea are yet to finalise their transfer plans after the coronavirus pandemic forced football to go into shutdown.

Experts have predicted there will be less money available to clubs during the next window and Arsenal have already decided to drastically restructure their plans.

Chelsea have already completed their first summer signing, with Hakim Ziyech’s transfer from Ajax poised to go through.

The Blues have been barred from signing any players in the last two windows and Ziyech is Lampard’s first addition to his squad as Chelsea manager – despite taking charge last summer.

Ziyech will not be able to represent Chelsea if the 2019/20 season resumes as planned in June.

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