Report: Dazzling Chelsea playmaker has answer for Conte after Euro giants come calling

Sat 5 August 2017 15:35, UK

By Aramide Oladipo

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard has rejected interest from La Liga giants Real Madrid and Barcelona during the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Spanish outlet Don Balon claims that the Catalan club see the 26-year-old as a suitable replacement for Neymar who has joined Paris Saint-Germain for a world record fee whilst Madrid are also interested in securing his signature.

This follows up from the story in the Mirror that recently reported that Barcelona had placed Hazard on a list of Premier League summer targets.

However, the report claims that the Belgian has made it clear to both clubs that he has no interest in leaving Stamford Bridge this summer, as he feels that he has a better chance of leading Chelsea to Champions League success rather than playing second-fiddle to the attacking talents in both Spanish sides.

Hazard was in outstanding form for the Blues last season, contributing with 17 goals and seven assists in all competitions and he helped Chelsea secure a second Premier League title in two seasons.

The winger currently has three years remaining on his current contract at Stamford Bridge.

Football Insider verdict

Chelsea supporters will no doubt be delighted to hear that one of their best players has decided to turn his back on two of the biggest football clubs in the world. Chelsea boss Antonio Conte recently laughed off speculation regarding the Hazard’s future but for the player himself to reject interest speaks volumes about his commitment to the club. Although Madrid and Barcelona will be the favourites to secure the Champions League trophy, it’s completely understandable for the Belgian to want to remain and prove himself as a starter in the competition rather than taking a back seat with the Spanish sides. Another factor that might have influenced the forward is the upcoming World Cup in Russia as the Belgian knows that he’ll need to be playing on a weekly basis to impress head coach Roberto Martinez.