• Premier League

Hazard tempted by Chelsea after Champions League win

ESPN staff
May 20, 2012
Eden Hazard is regarded as one of the hottest prospects in Europe © Getty Images
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Eden Hazard says he may opt to join Chelsea in a big-money move this summer, though the Lille starlet revealed he has yet to finalise a deal for next season.

Hazard appears certain to switch from Ligue 1 to the Premier League next term with Manchester City and United long considered favourites to snare his signature, while Arsenal have also declared their interest in the playmaker. However, in something of a surprise, €40 million-rated Hazard intimated that Chelsea's Champions League success may see him transfer to Stamford Bridge instead.

When asked about joining Chelsea, Hazard told Canal+: "That's possible. But until I pen to paper I won't say where I'm going.

"Of course it makes you think as Chelsea have won the Champions League. They're a big team and will be playing in the Champions League next season. They have great players and I always said I wanted to be playing. I think there is the possibility to play as well.

"I still don't know [which club I will join] yet, otherwise I would have announced it today. Nothing is done yet but it will happen soon."

Hazard netted an impressive first-half hat-trick in a 4-1 victory over Nancy in his final game for Lille on Sunday to seal third place in Ligue 1. Manager Rudi Garcia heaped praise on the Belgium international after the triumph, and added further fuel to reports that Hazard is set to snub the Manchester clubs for a move to London.

"It was a lovely evening, we had a great send-off party for Eden," Garcia told RMC. "He still doesn't know where he's going. In the last few weeks he's changed his mind, I believe.

"Things will be great for him. He's going to be a great player. The best player in the league is leaving it. Eden is a unique player, a guy who's capable of rising to challenges. He will remain one of the best players in LOSC's history."

Hazard was named Ligue 1 Player of the Season last Monday, having scored 21 goals in all competitions.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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