Chelsea want to take advantage of the uncertainty at Real Madrid by trying to reopen contract talks with Eden Hazard. And Hazard could yet be given the Chelsea captaincy if he stays at the club after head coach Maurizio Sarri put off making a change this season.

Hazard is waiting for a signal over whether or not Real will make a big push to sign him next season before deciding whether or not to sign an extension to his Chelsea contract that has just over 18 months to run.

But Real are busy trying to sort out their managerial situation after sacking manager Julen Lopetegui and installing Santiago Solari, initially on a temporary basis.

A move to appoint former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has stalled, while Real would have to wait until the end of the season to realistically stand a chance of getting Mauricio Pochettino or Jose Mourinho.

Hazard’s Belgium manager, Roberto Martinez, has also been linked with the post although the Belgian FA have insisted they have received no approach from Real.