According to The Telegraph, Los Blancos’ qualification for this year’s Champions League final has resulted in another extension of the deal that saw Hazard leave Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2019. While the 33-year-old and Real mutually agreed to terminate the five-year contract early, the terms remain in effect, much to the delight of those at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea, like many other clubs, is aiming to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules, so any additional funds from Real will be greatly appreciated. The Blues paid a reported £88 million (€102 million/$111 million) up front for Hazard, with the remainder of the £130 million (€151 million/$164 million) coming in the form of achievable performance-based bonuses.
Hazard’s decision to retire at the age of 32 followed a difficult period at Real Madrid, with injuries wreaking havoc on his career. During his time with Lille, the former winger appeared in only 54 La Liga games.