I don't think your double sump side by side is gonna work out. The 1" PVC connector will never be able to keep up with the volume being pumped out the return. No gravity to help there, just displacement and water trying to seek its own level between two containers. And it is probably too much water volume in the sumps if your aquarium drain was to clog or lose siphon as mentioned above. Honestly, it's the first time I see double sumps set up like that. I would find a single sump not as big as a 20 long and not as small as a 10 gal. Plexi-glas is best and the drilling that you are so concerned about is easily done. If you are on a tight budget, a properly sized Rubbermaid container works well too, not see through but it works, I've seen it!
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