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Chelsea transfer news: ESPN FC pundit discusses 'bonkers' Real Madrid double deal
CHELSEA would be “absolutely bonkers” to allow Eden Hazard and Willian to join Real Madrid before the La Liga transfer window shuts.
Hazard and Willian to Real Madrid would be 'bonkers' says Nicol
That is the verdict of ESPN FC pundit and legendary Liverpool full-back Steve Nicol.
Chelsea stars Hazard and Willian have both been linked with Stamford Bridge exits.
Real Madrid have a long-standing interest in Hazard and signed his Belgian team-mate Thibaut Courtois from the Blues earlier this month.
Barcelona had several bids for Willian turned down this summer and now Real are said to be keen on him.
From a Chelsea point of view, from a Chelsea fan’s point of view, this would be absolute madness
But Nicol says Chelsea will not let either of them leave as they cannot buy a replacement with the English window shutting on August 9.
“Chelsea, regardless of the amount of money that they would be offered for these two players, they would be absolutely bonkers to let them go in this window," he said.
“They won’t be able to replace either of them.
“So it seems inconceivable to me.
“Now, I did say (Cristiano) Ronaldo wouldn’t go to Juventus.
“But, from a Chelsea point of view, from a Chelsea fan’s point of view, this would be absolute madness.
“So I don’t see any way that these two go anywhere. Madness.”
Eden Hazard has started both of Chelsea’s opening two games of the Premier League season as a substitute.
Willian has been replaced by Hazard in the matches against Huddersfield and Arsenal.
Maurizio Sarri's side have won both of their opening fixtures and sit third in the table.
Next up they face a trip to Newcastle on Sunday (4pm).