Real Madrid are reportedly set to end their pursuit of Eden Hazard, and instead focus on the development of Marco Asensio.
According to a report by Spanish publication Marca, the Real Madrid board is set to block a potential move for Eden Hazard, who is keen on a move to Santiago Bernabeu. Los Blancos are instead eager to see Marco Asensio develop into an attacking superstar in the coming years.
Hazard is widely considered to be one of the best attacking players in the world, having been a pivotal figure in Chelsea’s fortunes for several years now. Usually one of the first names on the team sheet whenever fit and available, he has gone on to amass over 250 appearances for the Blues while also nearing 100 outings for Belgium.
Hazard has been the talisman for Chelsea this season as well, although a figure of eight goals and as many assists from 26 appearances is something he can definitely improve. Nevertheless, the Belgian is someone who several sides could do with, and is rightly a highly sought-after player in the transfer market.
Among the suitors that have been in his pursuit in recent times, Real Madrid have been the most heavily linked club. Los Blancos have, in fact, attempted to sign Hazard previously as well, albeit unsuccessfully so, and have continued to tail him relentlessly.
Hazard’s father Thierry: “Eden has rejected a contract extension. In order to serve the interest of Real Madrid, where he will look good. At this moment, there is no deal with Real.” pic.twitter.com/z9p4qFEnzf
— M•A•J (@UltraSuristic_) December 29, 2017
Gareth Bale’s perennial fitness troubles have compelled Zinedine Zidane to eye possible attacking reinforcements, especially with the struggles of Karim Benzema further piling on the goalscoring woes for the Real Madrid boss.
With Cristiano Ronaldo blowing hot and cold as well, Zidane had been eyeing Hazard as a possible addition to his squad. Hazard too, is keen on making the switch to the Bernabeu, having been coy over questions of a possible move.
The duo have also been vocal in their mutual admiration for each other. But, a move for the 26-year-old is now set to be blocked by the Real Madrid board, who are of the opinion that Zidane should focus on the development of Asensio, who they believe can soon be the superstar that Hazard is.
The young Spaniard has seen his campaign peter out after a blistering start, often being rotated with Isco as the third man in attack. His opportunities could reduce further if Hazard arrives, which is why a move for the Belgian winger now looks set to be abandoned.
This could provide a shot in the arm of Antonio Conte and Chelsea, who have been trying to tie Hazard down to a new deal for a long time. Hazard, on the other hand, could receive a blow, with his father claiming that he is eager to join Real Madrid
With the player seemingly unlikely to depart from Stamford Bridge anytime soon though, we could soon see him sign new terms with the Blues. Real Madrid, on the other hand, would now be hoping to see Asensio develop into a consistent performer in the years to come.
