At Real Madrid, a new sheriff is in town. This sheriff known as Zinedine Zidane is a well-known lover of Chelsea star, Eden Hazard’s style of play.
In fact, before landing the Madrid top job, Zizzou said Hazard was the best player in the world after Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
With this interest in mind, Los Blancos are believed to be preparing to table a deal in the region of £100 million for the Belgium international, Daily Star reported.
This could spell the end of the road for Madrid’s Wales international, Gareth Bale, who plays in a similar role to Hazard and had a great working relationship with sacked coach, Rafa Benitez.
Bale’s situation is reportedly being closely monitored by Chelsea who could land the 26-year-old as replacement for Hazard if he eventually departs. Also in on the Bale situation is Manchester United.
But while Zidane has expressed his admiration for 24-year-old Hazard, he described Bale as “fundamental” to his team.
The new manager said of Bale, who has scored seven goals in his last four games: “I understand that he was annoyed with the departure of Benitez because he was an important coach for him.
“But he is going to have the same treatment from me as with Rafa. He is important for the squad and fundamental for the team.
“What he has been doing recently is fantastic.
“I am going to give him all my affection and support so that he plays well.”