Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has said that he will respect the contract decision of Eden Hazard when the season comes to a close. The Belgium international has just 13 months remaining on his existing deal with the club and reports indicate that he is likely to head through the exit door with Real Madrid lurking to secure his signature.

Speaking after the 0-0 draw against Leicester City, Sarri said that he is hopeful that Hazard will remain with the club but he will respect any decision taken by the Belgian regarding his career, he told: "I hope he will stay. I think Eden has played here in Chelsea for seven seasons, trying in every match to do his best and now it's time to respect his decision."

Meanwhile, Hazard himself acknowledged that a decision regarding his future has already been made and an announcement over the same could be made following the Europa League final against Arsenal this month, he quipped: "Yes. A couple of weeks ago. Yes I have made my decision but it is not just about me. I have made my decision, that's it. I think so. We have a final to play and then I will see."

A recent report from Sky Sports News revealed that the Blues have turned down a couple of offers from Los Blancos for the attacker and they are holding for around £100m to sanction his sale. Nonetheless, there remains a greater chance of the playmaker leaving with his contract standoff with the Blues and it will be interesting to see whether the club can overcome his absence.

Christian Pulisic was pursued from Borussia Dortmund in January itself to potentially replace the Belgian and he is expected to join the team during pre-season after spending the second half of the campaign on loan with the Bundesliga giants.