Here’s how Real Madrid could buy Achraf Hakimi back
Real Madrid could still get Achraf Hakimi back in a few years.
Although Real Madrid fans were shocked and disappointed that the club sold rising star right back Achraf Hakimi to Inter Milan for a mere 40 milion euros, but there’s a chance Los Blancos could get him back at the peak of his powers.
Hakimi to Inter likely came down to salary and playing time. At Real Madrid, Hakimi would have been fighting for a place with Dani Carvajal, who would have probably remained the starter. Carvajal, as his recent performances have reminded fans around the world, is still probably the best right back in the world. Certainly, he’s the most well-rounded and the best in big games, and he is entering his peak age-wise after destroying concerns about a decline.
In all likelihood, Hakimi would have been a backup for Real Madrid if he returned to the Santiago Bernabeu after his two-year loan spell at Borussia Dortmund where he became a top player. Whereas at Inter, Hakimi will start in his preferred position at right wing back and be a crucial part of Antonio Conte’s ambitious XI. And that would make him more likely to earn higher wages.
However, Real can still get their young star back. According to a report from Edu Aguirre, via @Ultra_Suristic, Los Blancos have the right of first refusal for Hakimi over the next three years. Meaning Real will have a chance to match the highest transfer offer Inter receive for Hakimi and buy him back, which may be even better than a straight-up buy-back clause.
Nothing is official, but this could be a great perk to the deal for Real that makes things more understandable. Real Madrid get cash now in case they want to spend, Inter get a star player who is perfect for their team, and Hakimi gets a starting job with good wages.
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And in a few years if Real are ready to have someone start for Carvajal or even see Hakimi as an ideal winger for them, they can buy the Morocco international back at whatever the market dictates. By then, Los Blancos will have more clarity both in their finance department and their squad needs.