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In an effort to combat Real Madrid’s latest Eden Hazardian desires, Chelsea FC are believed to have started negotiations for a new contract with the player. Hazard is already one of the highest, if not the highest paid player at Chelsea at around £200,000 per week, but according to IB Times, that wage packet will get bumped up to £300,000 with the new deal. As reported last week by both the Guardian and the Telegraph, the new extension is just one part of Chelsea’s major summer efforts at improving the squad.
Real Madrid have not been subtle in their pursuit of Hazard, and while they’ve been linked many times before over the years, this season seems a notch above most. Reports are already talking about Chelsea having to be ready to reject world record bids, for example.
Marca: "Chelsea are 'open for negotiations' with Real for Hazard". Usually not the thing that Marina Granovskaia promises to players. #cfc pic.twitter.com/aSxMoD97QJ
— Kristof Terreur (@HLNinEngeland) March 27, 2017
If the rumors end up leading to a new long-term deal for Eden Hazard at Chelsea, all the speculation will have been worth it. The Belgian is having a fantastic season for the league leaders, returning to the attacking form we saw in years past (except the lackluster 2015-16 campaign).
The return to form can partially be attributed to new head coach Antonio Conte. Hazard loves playing for the Italian and has praised Conte: “Fantastic manager. He gives the spirit to the team. For me, it is a privilege to play with this manager, and I hope we can achieve something together.”
If all goes well, Hazard and Conte will be achieving the first of hopefully many trophies together at the end of the season.