Chelsea winger Eden Hazard has admitted that he would ”listen” if an offer from Real Madrid comes through, hence not ruling out a departure from the London club.
The 26-year-old Belgium forward, who has been linked with current European Champions Real Madrid umpteen times now, has said: “Of course I would consider it if Madrid made an offer, I am keen to win trophies. It would be great to win the Champions League. But Chelsea’s goal is to win the Champions League as well. Honestly, I do not know what will happen.”
Since Madrid manager, Zinedine Zidane rates Hazard highly and the forward is also open for a move, Chelsea boss Antonio Conte might consider lining up replacements. Here are the three potential stars to replace Hazard.
#1 James Rodriguez
Rodriguez’s talent and class have never been in doubt, despite his limited appearances for Madrid this season. A public fall-out with manager Zidane means the attacking midfielder is almost certain to depart.
On a technical aspect, Zidane’s 4-3-3 has no room for a textbook number 10 like Rodriguez. Central Attacking Midfielder is the position, where Rodriguez is best at. Initially, Zidane played 4-4-2 also didn’t give an option to Rodriguez to thrive centrally. But, in Conte’s 3-4-3, Rodriguez can be deployed best as an attacking midfielder. The South American has the vision, distribution and passing range to be a lethal member of Chelsea’s build-up play.
Under Ancelotti, Rodriguez started from left and for his national team, he dropped deep into midfield and proved instrumental. Rodriguez can play in these two positions for Conte as well.
#2 Alexis Sanchez
Undoubtedly, Sanchez will be the best man to replace Hazard at Chelsea. The Chilean has set the Premier League on fire this season and is a world-class player. There can be nothing better for the Blues if they can lure away the most lethal weapon from their London rivals.
Sanchez scored 24 goals and assisted 10 this season. He has the uncanny ability to play equally well on the wings and as an auxiliary number nine, like Hazard.
Gunners have the reputation of being a selling club over the years and Sanchez’s exit could be a massive blow, if it happens.
#3 Emil Forsberg
The RB Leipzig sensation is touted to be the next big thing in Sweden. The winger has scored 19 Bundesliga goals this season. Forsberg has the ceiling as high as probably a Hazard, considering his talent.
His movement off the ball and ability to exploit the space and create space for his teammates are top notch. Forsberg displays brilliant work-rate and he is a fantastic presser. His vision, finishing speak volumes of his calibre.
If Conte gets him, he can mould the youngster to be a top end star, just like Hazard.
