Dortmund want Real Madrid loanee Achraf to stay
AS has learned that Dortmund are keen to extend Achraf Hakimi's stay and will discuss the matter with Real Madrid once football resumes.
Borussia Dortmund are keen to hold on to Achraf Hakimi after the end of the season and will discuss the possibility with Real Madrid once football recommences.
Achraf joined Dortmund on a two-year loan deal which finishes at the end of the season but AS understands the German club want to extend the Moroccan defender’s stay at the Bundesliga.
That means talks with Madrid would focus on extending the loan agreement or completing a transfer to make Achraf’s stay permanent. Los Blancos were expecting the full-back to return this summer, although his position is already covered by Sergio Reguilón, who has been on loan at Sevilla this season, and like Achraf, has had an impressive campaign with his adopted club.
Of course, a lot could change between now and when the talks start. Strategically, however, it would be in Real Madrid's interest to maintain its excellent relations with Dortmund.
Madrid have their eyes set on Dortmund’s prized young striker, Erling Haaland, and keeping the Bundesliga outfit sweet with Achraf could help with future negotiations for the Norwegian striker.
Achraf: If Madrid want me back, I’ll go back
At the moment the only certainty in the Achraf situation is Dortmund's desire to retain his services beyond next season. However, what is unknown is the desire of the player himself. His contract at Madrid expires in 2021, but that will be automatically extended by two more years if he is part of the first team.
If he returns, there is no doubt he will want to be paid as a first team player and would not accept a return to Castilla.
“If Madrid wants me to come back, I will come back," stated the Moroccan international, who has also sent contradictory messages, stating that his priority is “playing minutes”. However, amid the crisis due to coronavirus and the ensuing uncertainty, Real Madrid are not in a position to consider Achraf’s future right now.
Achraf’s impressive spell in Germany
Achraf has performed exceptionally during his two seasons in the Bundesliga. In total, he has played 65 games, providing ten goals and 17 assists. During that time, his market value has also surged and is currently at 54 million euros.