According to The Metro, Manchester United have made contact with representatives of Athletic Bilbao star Aymeric Laporte; whilst Sky Sports report that manager Guus Hiddink has insisted Eden Hazard doesn’t want to leave Chelsea.
The 21-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young centre-backs in world football, having already registered over 100 appearances in La Liga and held down a regular spot in the Bilbao starting Xi since the start of the 2013/14 season.
Manchester United have been linked with the Frenchman for some time and The Metro – citing reports from Spanish publication Sport – claim they’ve now opened talks with his representatives over a potential summer transfer to Old Trafford.
However, Athletic won’t budge on the 6 foot 2 defender’s £38.7million release clause and United face competition from Barcelona, with manager Luis Enrique a particularly big fan.
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Meanwhile, Sky Sports report that Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink has insisted winger Eden Hazard looking to leave Stamford Bridge.
The Belgium international has scored just once – a penalty against MK Dons in the Capital One Cup – since claiming last season’s PFA Player of the Year award and shocked Blues supporters earlier this week upon suggesting he would struggle to turn down a move to PSG.
But speaking at today’s pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea’s FA Cup clash with Manchester City on Sunday, Hiddink told reporters; “Every now and then I have short conversations with [Hazard] and ask him about the situation et cetera.
“But he is very keen to be here. He has extended his contract, he is happy here, his family are happy here. There is no sign from his side to say, ‘No, I am eager to go’. Not whatsoever, he is happy.”