PSG identify €65m-rated Alberto Costa as backup for Morocco star Achraf Hakimi

Paris Saint-Germain are continuing their search for a reliable backup to Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi as the French champions look to strengthen their options at right-back.

Hakimi remains the undisputed first-choice option in the position, but PSG are aware of the demands of a season that includes Ligue 1, domestic cup competitions and the UEFA Champions League.

The club attempted to address the position during the summer transfer window but were unable to find a player willing to accept a secondary role behind the Moroccan star.

PSG have therefore continued to explore the market for a right-back who can provide competition and allow Hakimi to be rested during selected fixtures without significantly weakening the team.

According to reports, Portuguese defender Alberto Costa has emerged as a potential target for the Parisian club.

The FC Porto right-back has also attracted interest from several English clubs, potentially creating competition for his signature should PSG decide to make a formal approach.

Costa only joined Porto from Juventus for €15 million and has a contract with the Portuguese club until the summer of 2030.

His long-term deal also contains a €65 million release clause, meaning PSG could have to make a significant financial commitment to secure his services.

The potential fee represents a considerable investment for a player who would initially be expected to provide cover for Hakimi rather than immediately challenge the Moroccan for a regular starting position.

PSG’s financial position could allow them to consider such a move, with the club having recorded a positive net transfer balance of more than €180 million during the summer window.

However, the cost of Costa’s release clause could still make the deal difficult to justify, particularly given Hakimi’s importance to the team and his status as the established starter.

The Moroccan has become one of PSG’s most important players since joining the club and continues to play a major role in their attacking and defensive structure.

Finding a suitable understudy has therefore become a delicate task for the Parisian giants: the club needs a player capable of handling important matches and providing adequate cover, while also accepting that Hakimi remains the preferred option.

Costa’s situation could give PSG another option to consider as they assess how best to manage the right-back position over the course of a demanding season.