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Chelsea transfer news: Eden Hazard to Real Madrid stance revealed, announcement claim made
CHELSEA fear Eden Hazard wants to join Real Madrid - and the Blues know there’s a huge chance he will leave.
Eden Hazard: Sarri discusses comparisons to Messi and Ronaldo
The Blues have yet to be convinced that the 27-year-old wants to remain at Stamford Bridge, claims the bleacherreport.
Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri managed to fend off moves from Real Madrid before the season began, but the club are still seeking a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.
And it appears Hazard could make a move to the Spanish capital in the summer, after Real look to increase their £150m valuation closer to the £200m that Chelsea have placed on his head.
Hazard is having a great season for the Blues and already has 10 goals in 19 Premier League appearances.
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It’s time to decide
However, the Blues superstar’s contract expires in 2020 and Hazard is stalling on signing a renewal.
If no agreement is reached, it could force Chelsea’s hand to move the player on rather than risk losing him on a free transfer.
And Sarri’s patience over the issue appears to be running out, after he recently admitted the issue needs to be resolved.
“It’s time to decide,” Sarri said.
“We have to solve this problem if we want to programme the future.”
Former England and Arsenal player Paul Merson believes Hazard will leave in the summer and tips Ross Barkley to fill the position.
"Barkley is a good player and Chelsea have a lot of games coming up in the new year," Merson said.
"I don't see Eden Hazard being there next season, and Barkley may be one of those that has to step up.
"I think the older he gets, the better he'll get. He's definitely improved as a player, and I think he'll improve again.”
Another option could see Chelsea jumping the gun in bringing in Hazard’s replacement in the January window.
There are several reports that the Blues are willing to meet Borussia Dortmund's £45 million valuation for Christian Pulisic.
But Chelsea could face a lot of competition for the 20-year-old, with Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United all interested in the Bundesliga star.