Chelsea Confident Over Hazard Contract Extension as Mourinho Plays Down Delay
By BBC Sport | Premier League – Chelsea
Chelsea manager José Mourinho has moved to ease concerns over Eden Hazard’s contract situation, insisting that a new deal for the Belgian star is close despite months of delay.
Hazard, 23, was expected to extend his contract as early as September, but negotiations have dragged on amid growing interest from European giants Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. Still, Mourinho remains confident that an agreement with the club’s standout attacker is imminent.
“There is no problem. I am not worried because they are almost in agreement,” Mourinho told reporters at a press conference. “And the club knows that ‘almost’ will become ‘done’ soon.”
Hazard, who is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2017, has been central to Chelsea’s strong form this season. The Belgian international has flourished under Mourinho’s guidance and is considered one of the Premier League’s most electrifying talents.
The Chelsea boss has made no secret of Hazard’s importance to his tactical setup, regularly referring to him as a “key player” in the Blues’ attacking plans. The club are reportedly preparing to make him one of their highest earners as part of the new deal.
In addition to Hazard’s contract, Mourinho also expressed hope that veteran captain John Terry will sign a one-year extension, allowing him to finish his career at the club where he has spent over two decades.
Terry, who retired from international football in 2012, has enjoyed a resurgence in form under Mourinho’s second spell in charge and remains a central figure both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
“John is playing at a top level. If he maintains this level, he deserves to stay. It would be fantastic if he could finish his career here,” Mourinho added.
As Chelsea push for domestic and European honours, securing the futures of two of their most influential players would provide further stability for a side already brimming with confidence and quality.
