Arsenal have reportedly made 'first contact' with Eden Hazard as they plot an audacious move for the former Chelsea star.
The Belgian attacker swapped Stamford Bridge for the Santiago Bernabeu back in 2019, in a deal which could exceed £150million. However, Hazard's Real Madrid dream has swiftly turned into a nightmare.
Amid a string of injures and a lack of confidence, the former Blues star has failed to hit the heights in Spain. This season alone, the 31-year-old has only managed one goal in 22 appearances, having found himself scarcely used by Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti.
The midfield creator was regarded as one of the best in the world following his exploits with Chelsea as he helped inspire the west Londoners to two Premier League titles. As his Spanish struggles continue, Hazard has found himself linked with a move back to England and it appears Arsenal are seeking to seal a sensational summer swoop.
According to Foot Mercato, the Gunners have 'initiated the first contact' with Real Madrid over the prospect of signing the former Chelsea star. The French outlet report that Mikel Arteta is said to be keen on adding Hazard to his ranks as he continues to transform his ever-improving side into title-contenders.
While Real Madrid are believed to be eager to offload the Belgian this summer, the player himself reportedly remains intent on fighting for his future and make his mega-money move to the Spanish capital a success. However, it appears Arsenal are not alone in their alleged aim of bringing Hazard back to the Premier League.
Backed by their new Saudi owners, Newcastle have also been heavily linked with the superstar as their squad overhaul looks set to continue this summer. The Magpies have reportedly expressed a 'real desire' to bring Hazard to St. James' Park and are said to have already opened talks over a potential move.
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Hazard has also found himself linked with a Chelsea reunion in recent times, though such a prospect has been thrown into doubt following the club's ongoing crisis. The Blues saw their Russian owner Roman Abramovich hit with strict sanctions by the UK Government last week.
In addition to the club's future being cast into doubt, the west Londoners are also unable to sign any players. Speculation surrounding a Stamford Bridge return was rife last summer, however, Hazard was quick to dismiss such suggestions.
"I still have a three-year contract with Real Madrid, so going back to England is out of the question," he declared last May. "Everyone knows that my first two years were not good, so first I want to prove myself at Real Madrid. I will do everything to do that.
"I certainly don’t see myself leaving Madrid, given the contract situation. I know myself and I know when I’m in shape. If that’s the case, I can give it my all for Real next season. That’s my plan."
It appears Arsenal have not been deterred however, and a strong finish to this current campaign could aid their attempts to snap up Hazard. The Gunners have enjoyed a remarkable resurgence under Arteta this season and strengthened their grip on a top-four finish with a 2-0 triumph over Leicester last weekend.
The Emirates outfit currently occupy fourth spot in the Premier League and sit one point above closest challengers Manchester United, with three games in hand over the Red Devils. Champions League football next season could play a significant part in convincing Hazard that North London is the place to get his career back on track.
