Four destinations for Eden Hazard if Real Madrid fails
By James Fudge
The Catalan club was linked with the signing of Eden Hazard earlier in the season and was competing with their rivals for his signature, however any transfer stories have since become muted since January.
This may have been at the request of the player’s agent to force through a move to his preferred destination or from the La Liga champions themselves.
Barcelona is now likely to favour the signings of Neymar or Antonie Griezmann as they address a Spanish speaker to fit in alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez into their forward three.
Should those targets fail to come to the Camp Nou then there is a possibility that the 28-year-old will make a move.
The club certainly has the finances to complete the deal, especially as they look to offload a few expensive recent acquisitions to improve the balance within the squad.
The possibility of Philippe Coutinho or Ousmane Dembélé going in the opposite direction will certainly suit Chelsea, particularly if they are allowed to complete any such swap deal under their current transfer embargo.
The benefit of adding a high-quality player to their squad will certainly make the Europa League winners potentially contenders in the Premier League next season.
Chances of signing – Unlikely – He has always said he wanted the opportunity to play in La Liga but after flirting with Madrid for so long, it looks unlikely he will move anywhere but the capital, should Spain be his destination.
Should he desire to be the number one at the club, he will never achieve that status as long as Lionel Messi remains with Barcelona.