Why Chelsea fans shouldn’t believe reports of Hazard transfer request

Eden Hazard could hand in a transfer request at Chelsea, according to reports.

Spanish newspaper AS say Hazard, who has a year remaining on his Blues contract, could formally ask for a move in an attempt to force through a transfer to Real Madrid.

Hazard has made no secret of his desire to play for Real and has spoken publicly about his dilemma over whether to sign a new deal or pursue his dream move.

Speculation he could demand the move comes amid reports in Spain that Chelsea are refusing to accept less than £100m for the Belgian.

The Blues face the prospect of a transfer ban this summer, so losing their star player without being able to reinvest in the squad means Chelsea are not inclined to sell on the cheap.

And reports in the Spanish media should often be taken with a pinch of salt.

Real Madrid are known to use the media in Spain to their advantage when pursuing players.

In the case of Hazard, reports in Spain claimed during the January transfer window that a deal was close or had even been agreed, yet no move materialised.

So it remains to be seen whether the latest reports have any substance. It seems unlikely.

Hazard has been fairly respectful of Chelsea so far and demanding a move would seem out of character.