PSG target Guéla Doué: searching for Hakimi backup

Paris Saint-Germain have put Strasbourg's Ivory Coast international right-back Guéla Doué at the top of their target list to strengthen their defense. According to Goal, the French champions are seeking a quality alternative for star player Achraf Hakimi and appear determined this time after a barren search last summer. The 23-year-old defender, the older brother of Désiré Doué, has landed on Parc des Princes' radar after an impressive season with the Alsace club.

PSG last season relied on makeshift solutions like midfielders Warren Zaïre-Emery and João Neves during Hakimi's rare absences. But finding a player willing to accept a backup role behind the Morocco star while also being of PSG's level was not easy. In sporting director Luis Campos's renewed search this summer, Guéla Doué has emerged as the ideal candidate.

The Ivorian player, under contract with Strasbourg until 2029, recorded two goals and seven assists across all competitions last season. Able to operate as a traditional right-back, slot into central defense and move into midfield at the manager's discretion, Doué's versatile profile fits perfectly with Luis Enrique's fluid tactical approach. The former Rennes player is said to have become a benchmark defender in Ligue 1.

Doué's rising reputation was further cemented by his performances for Ivory Coast at the 2026 World Cup; the player featured three times, helping his team reach the round of 32. But according to the report, PSG are not alone in this race: Borussia Dortmund are also showing interest in the player. Strasbourg are said to value Doué between 30 and 35 million euros. That figure is considered an affordable price for PSG, who want to solve a major issue in their squad.

Source: Goal
Image: Foot Mercato