Belgian superstar remains a Chelsea target
Despite Lille’s best efforts to dissuade clubs from forming interest around their talisman, it seems Chelsea have lost no interest whatsoever in chasing Eden Hazard.
The Belgian international has been on the radar of some of Europe’s biggest clubs for some years and the likes of Manchester United, Inter Milan, Barcelona and Real Madrid are just some of the teams monitoring his situation.
However, even with all this high profile attention, it appears that Chelsea are now amongst the favourites to land his signature.
It’s understood that the Blues have sent Sporting Director, Michael Emalano, to scout the 21 year-old attacking midfielder ahead of a January swoop.
Lille would rather not sell their star during the winter transfer window as they look to retain their Ligue 1 title, but could have no choice if Chelsea were to match his £30m asking price.
The youngster was a key component in the French outfit’s league victory last year and has restarted this campaign in much the same fashion.
Hazard has appeared in 28 matches so far this campaign scoring eight goals and making ten assists.
The maestro is capable of playing across the creative line, featuring as an attacking playmaker or on either wing, presenting a versatile possibility for Andre Villas Boas.
Salamon Kalou, Florent Malouda and John Obi Mikel are all being linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge and it’s suspected that any funds gained from their departures will go towards purchasing Hazard.
The Belgian starlet may carry a hefty price-tag of over £30m but Roman Abramovich’s side are going through a tough period and risk losing out on a Champions League spot, perhaps signalling the need for big investment.
Should Lille hang on to their attacker for the remainder of the 2011-12 season, a summer move is massively likely to occur as the vultures begin to circle around his signature.
