Interesting Development’s In Eden Hazard Transfer Race?

Guest post by Arsenal fan RVP10

Eden Hazard is one of the most sought after players in world football with the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Man Utd interested in his services, as well as top European sides like Real Madrid, Barcelona and Inter Milan.

The 21-year-old Belgian is currently valued at around £35m by his club Lille and there have been numerous conflicting reports in recent months claiming to have the inside scoop on Hazard and his next potential destination. However, there have been two interesting developments this week that could influence Hazard’s future.

Lille knocked out of Europe

On Wednesday night Lille were eliminated from the Champions League after a 0-0 draw with Trabzonspor, which left them bottom of their group meaning they didn’t even qualify for a place in the Europa League. The end result is the French side and Hazard will not have European football to look forward to in the New Year.

This could have an influence on whether Lille are willing to cash in on their prized asset this January. With no European football, the French champions might just think this winter is as good a time as any to sell to the highest bidder, as the January transfer window usually commands inflated price tags.

Coquelin used as bait?

Arsenal may just have a trump card up their sleeve in the race for Hazard. Lille have been heavily linked with a move for Gunners youngster Francis Coquelin in the past few days, so it’s quite possible Arsene Wenger could use their interest to his advantage in any negotiations for Hazard.

Of course the £35m fee Lille are demanding may prove to be a major stumbling block for the prudent Gunners boss, as it’s extremely unlikely Arsene Wenger would spend that kind of money on one player. But perhaps the experienced Frenchman could strike up some sort of deal that includes add ons and the loan of Coquelin as well as a large up front fee.

Its worth noting this is all just speculation at this point and i’m sure the ‘race for Hazard’ has a few more twists and turns before it’s finally settled, but as an Arsenal fan i’d love to see us find a way to bring him to the Emirates. Arshavin, Chamakh, Coquelin (on loan) and £15m do the trick?  No??