Date: 16th May 2018 at 11:00am
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Simon Phillips reacts to the latest reports regarding Hazard’s future.

The Belgian’s contractual saga continues to dominate headlines at Chelsea, as both Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazard do not appear to be close to signing new deals. Chelsea are currently facing losing Courtois for free next summer, then Hazard departing the following season.

But the Blues’ star player – who is valued at £90M by transfermarkt –  has publicly spoken about what the club need to do for him to sign a new deal, and it has received mixed reactions from the Chelsea faithful.

It’s been widely suggested that once one signs, the other will follow. But for that to happen, Chelsea must sign better players, according to the 82 capped Belgium captain.

He spoke to the BBC on Tuesday, and when asked what would persuade him to sign a new deal, he responded “I’m waiting for new players next season. I want good players because I want to win the premier league next season”.

As well as that, he had more to say via Belgian news outlet HLN. While keeping his cards close to his chest, he said “I’m open to discover new things, but on the other hand I am happy at Chelsea. It’s a double feeling, whatever happens, I am happy. There is a lot of speculation. But I want to know who the club is signing too.”

The wording comes across as rather demanding, but the substance of what he is saying is hard to disagree with. Is it a mistake to state this publicly? Debatable. But at the same time, I understand and can fully see where he is coming from here.

The latest report from The Telegraph, claims that ‘Antonio Conte’s departure is expected to be confirmed after the FA Cup Final on Saturday. And that by them targeting a more attacking minded manager, it might convince Hazard to stay’.

I think Hazard is right; if we as a club want to continue to attract top talents and keep some of our best current talents happy, then they need the top players alongside them. There are far too many average players in that squad currently, and I can understand the frustrations that Hazard has.

I’ve often been watching matches when there is a great move put together but will so often fade out due to bad decision making or a poor pass from one of our more average players. You can see what kind of fluid attacking football we could be playing with the right head coach and better players.

Hazard has always maintained that he is happy at Chelsea, but he is merely crying out for the club to match his ambitions. I don’t see anything wrong with that. It shows he cares and shows he wants to stay at Chelsea. Will the club match his aspirations? Well, that is anyone’s guess. But it could make for an exciting summer at Stamford Bridge.

What are your thoughts? Let us know!

 

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