Real Madrid have reportedly set to end their interest in Chelsea superstar Eden Hazard, with Julen Lopetegui placing his faith on Marco Asensio and Isco
According to a report by Spanish publication AS, Chelsea have received a major boost in their bid to keep hold of Eden Hazard in the summer transfer window. Real Madrid have cooled their interest in the Belgian winger, with Julen Lopetegui in favour of giving Isco and Marco Asensio bigger roles next term.
Hazard has been on Real Madrid’s radar for a long time now. But, Los Blancos seemed to have stepped up their interest in the 27-year-old after he recently hinted towards ending his six-year stint with Chelsea this summer.
Hazard also alluded towards a “preferred destination”, which is widely believed to be Real Madrid. But, Chelsea have remained determined in their bid to keep retain the player, with Maurizio Sarri insisting that he will hold talks with his unsettled to players to keep them at Stamford Bridge.
Real Madrid have rocked by the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this month. Since then, they have been reported to be in the market for a new Galactico as they look to compensate for the Portuguese’s exit, as far as tangible contribution is concerned.
PSG duo, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar have both been heavily linked with Real Madrid. In recent weeks though, it’s been Hazard who has reportedly become their top target. But, the report by AS suggests that Los Blancos may have backed out of their pursuit of the Chelsea superstar.
The major reason for their change in stance is the fact that new Real Madrid manager Julen Lopetegui is focusing on handing Isco and Marco Asensio a key role in the upcoming season. Hazard’s arrival from Chelsea could hamper the duo’s progress, with the Belgian likely to be a first-choice forward.
Chelsea’s attempt of thwarting Real Madrid by reportedly slapping a potential world record price tag on Hazard seems to have worked as well, with Los Blancos unwilling to shell out the sum either. What also seems to have worked in the Blues’ favour is the fact that they have the final call in a potential sale of the player.
With not long to go before the summer transfer window slams shut in England, Chelsea will have very little time to sign a possible replacement for their talisman. With Real Madrid set to end their interest in him now, it looks like the West Londoners will be keeping hold of Hazard after all.
Isco and Asensio seemingly now have the onus on them to vindicate Lopetegui’s decision and be the flag bearers for Real Madrid in the upcoming campaign.
