Harry Diamond
Chelsea are in talks to make Eden Hazard the highest-paid player in their history to ward off long-standing interest from Real Madrid.
The European champions have long been credited with an interest in taking Hazard to Spain, with the player himself admitting a move to The Bernabeu this summer was ‘possible’.
With just over 18 months to run on his current contract, Chelsea are prepared to offer the Belgian an new deal worth close to £300,000-a-week to keep the player at Stamford Bridge.
Sky Sports are reporting a contract has been offered to the player and his representatives, with Hazard yet to decide on his future.
Maurizio Sarri has been keen to tie his star player down to a new long-term contract, but admits the decision rests with Hazard.
“The club is available to sign a new contract immediately but it’s up to him if he wants to renew.’’ Sarri told the press before the Blues 2-1 defeat away to Wolves yesterday.
“I want Eden here, of course, but I want him here if he wants to stay here. I know very well that there are discussions between the club and the manager of Eden every week.”