Real Madrid are ready to rule out a move for Chelsea forward Eden Hazard who was looked at as club great Cristiano Ronaldo's replacement at Santiago Bernabeu.
Hazard had made his intentions clear during Belgium's World Cup campaign when he hinted at the possibility of making the switch from London to Madrid. And following the departure of Ronaldo to Juventus, the Belgian star was considered one of the favourites even as big names Neymar and Kylian Mbappe looked like staying in Paris.
However, Real, barring a change in mind between now and the end of the summer window, are unlikely to make an offer for Hazard, according to AS.
With Chelsea reportedly demanding a world record fee in excess of £200m, the Spanish giants aren't willing to splash out as they feel they have enough firepower in the squad even after the Portuguese talisman's departure.
Also, Chelsea will not be willing to sell after the Premier League transfer window closes on August 9 and Real feel they don't have enough time to complete the Hazard move, according to the Spanish newspaper.
Lopetegui, who was controversially appointed as Zinedine Zidane's successor, is all set to build the squad around Isco for the upcoming season. The Spanish attacking midfielder has been a regular fixture for the La Roja and was key part of the former Spanish coach's plans.
Also, 22-year-old Marco Asensio, who was in Liverpool's radar, is expected to play a prominent role at Madrid under Lopetegui.
Sarri keen on having Hazard at Stamford Bridge
On the other hand, Chelsea's newly-appointed boss Maurizio Sarri is keen on not letting go of Hazard.
The Belgian superstar, who was at his best during the Red Devils' run to the World Cup semi-final, has two years remaining on his current deal.
Sarri is even reportedly willing to offer Hazard the captaincy and convince him to stay at Stamford Bridge.
Notably, the Italian tactician who replaced Antonio Conte, wants to have both Hazard and Willian, who missed out on move to Barcelona, at the club as the Blues look to launch yet another title bid in the upcoming season.
