For the first time ever, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich may indeed be strong-armed into selling one of his best players. Indeed, with Real Madrid reportedly interested in moving for Eden Hazard after the Belgian enjoyed a strong World Cup with his country, these are uncertain times at Stamford Bridge.
The likes of Tottenham, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United have been forced to allow their prized assets to move to either Barcelona or Los Blancos over the years, though the Blues have rarely suffered the same fate. Clearly, those in west London have fallen a bit behind the Manchester giants in a financial sense and missing out on the Champions League yet again is unlikely to go down well in the Hazard camp, so Real’s apparent interest really is a worry.
Still, as good as Hazard is, perhaps life under Maurizio Sarri can be better, even without him. While at Napoli, the recently appointed Chelsea coach focused on the collective, creating a vibrant side with many attacking points of reference, so perhaps he could build something similar if Real are to pay a world record fee for the Blues star.
With that in mind, here’s a look at who they could buy, in an ideal world.
Having worked with Sarri to wonderful effect while at Napoli, Lorenzo Insigne would certainly make sense as a potential Hazard replacement. The Italian international operates in a similar way, dragging opposition defenders inside and out while boasting the kind of energy to stand out in a demanding system such as Sarri’s.
Perhaps Chelsea can capitalise on his missing out on the title in Naples by offering him the chance to try his luck in the Premier League.
Newcastle fans won’t have too many fond memories of Florian Thauvin but his record since leaving the Toon Army can’t be sniffed at. It’s clear things just didn’t work out for the 25-year-old on Tyneside, with Thauvin going on to hit form with Marseille, as well as winning the World Cup with France.
A thrillingly incisive forward who can damage any defence at pace, he’s got a high ceiling and a coach such as Sarri could really make him a star.
