Chelsea: Don’t blame Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois, no-one can resist Real Madrid

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 02: Eden Hazard of Chelsea celebrates after scoring his sides third goal with Alvaro Morata of Chelsea and Marcos Alonso of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge on December 2, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 02: Eden Hazard of Chelsea celebrates after scoring his sides third goal with Alvaro Morata of Chelsea and Marcos Alonso of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge on December 2, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Eden Hazard has reportedly stalled during his Chelsea contract negotiations as he holds out for a Real Madrid offer. But who wouldn’t entertain an offer from Los Blancos?

Football fans often value player loyalty over their spouse’s love. Hence, the latest story about Eden Hazard is likely to spark some discussion on social media. The Belgian is reportedly refusing to sign a contract worth £300,000 per week as he waits for Real Madrid to show interest.

"Eden Hazard is refusing to sign a new contract at Chelsea in the hope of attracting an offer from Real Madrid. The Belgium forward has followed his compatriot Thibaut Courtois in putting his contract talks on hold until the end of the season. – via The Times"

Blues fans have slaughtered Thibaut Courtois for similar actions. Hazard appears to be generally safe from the supporters’ ire, but this news may cause some rumblings.

However, how can you blame them? As the case of David De Gea shows, interest from Real Madrid will turn the head of any player at any club. De Gea has been the undisputed number one goalkeeper for Manchester United. United are probably the only club who can claim to have greater allure than Real Madrid. Yet, De Gea is seemingly still keen to leave them behind for the Santiago Bernabeu.

Despite Chelsea’s recent successes, fans occasionally need a dose of reality. The opportunity to play in the famous white shirts of Real Madrid trumps anything West London can offer. Hence, Hazard’s contract breakdown should have been expected.

Clatten-Gate: Chelsea fans outraged Mark Clattenburg knows his job better than they do

Anger towards Courtois can be understood to some extent. The manner in which he has handled his Chelsea future has been simply disrespectful. Hazard, though, has kept his mouth shut. There is no reason to get on his back.

Moreover, Hazard has arguably a greater chance of success at Real Madrid. De Gea does appear to be their primary goalkeeping target – signing Courtois is a plan B. Hazard, though, would immediately be front and centre.

With Cristiano Ronaldo gradually moving towards retirement, the stage is set for a new player to be the face of Real Madrid. Marco Asensio is a candidate, but Hazard will likely leapfrog him. The thought of Asensio and Hazard teaming up is scary as well.

Next: Conte out-coaches and out-manages his “top six” peers

What do you think of these developments? Are you going to cry on Twitter? Or are you more understanding? Let us know in the comments below!