Real Madrid chief ‘very hopeful’ of Hazard deal

Florentino Perez has given a clear indication that Real Madrid plan to sign Eden Hazard.

Reports in Spain have been suggesting that Hazard will leave Chelsea for Madrid after the Blues’ Europa League final against Arsenal on Wednesday.

And Real president Perez told has told Spanish radio station Onda Cero that he wants to sign Hazard, who has a year remaining on his Chelsea contract.

Perez confirmed that his club had previously tried in vain to sign Hazard and said he was “very hopeful” of capturing the Belgian this time.

“I am very interested and very hopeful that he will come this year. He is one of the best players in the world,” Perez said.

“How can we talk with a club that is about to play a final? We tried to get him last season but it was not possible.

“We have been trying to make Hazard a Real Madrid player for years but we still have not achieved it.”

Hazard, 28, has made no secret of his desire to play for Real and has indicated to Chelsea that he wants to leave.

He has been outstanding again this season for the Blues, who signed him from French club Lille in 2012.

Meanwhile, Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante is a major doubt for Wednesday game after picking up knee injury in training.