The former Real Madrid and Chelsea player has been without a club since his deal at the Bernabéu was cancelled in June.
William GittinsWillGittUpdate: Aug 9th, 2023 10:58 EDT
JAVIER GANDULDIARIO AS
Eden Hazard’s ill-fated spell in Spain has come to an end but the former Premier League Player of the Year is yet to find himself a new club, two months after leaving Real Madrid.
AS USA has learned that the Belgian is considering three possible destinations for his next challenge. At 32, Hazard is certainly approaching the end of his career but likely has one more move left.
Hazard is thought to have attracted interest from clubs in MLS, Brazil and the Saudi Pro League.
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Eden Hazard developed into one of the best attacking players in the world at Chelsea.Michael ReganGetty Images
Eden Hazard could make MLS switch
The most likely destination for Hazard, at this stage, seems to be MLS. The American top flight has always welcomed elite stars in the twilight of their career but the arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has heightened the interest in the league. Hazard reportedly turned down a previous offer to sign for Inter Miami, and the signing of Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have now ruled that out as a possibility.
Vancouver Whitecaps, a Canadian team who play in MLS, are thought to be interested in bringing Hazard to the league. Vancouver are currently 7th in the Western Conference. If Hazard were to move to MLS he would have to agree a deal before the roster freeze deadline on 2 September.
Brazilian club Botafogo could return for Hazard
If Hazard were willing to move further afield, he is thought to have options in Brazil. In the past Botafogo owner John Textor has made no secret of his desire to bring Hazard to the club and that interest is likely still there.
A move to Botafogo would also have a competitive appeal for Hazard. The team sit top of the Brasileiro Serie A, 13 points clear of second-place Flamengo. However the money in Brazil would be less lucrative and he would be forced to take an enormous pay cut to make the deal happen.
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Botafogo have impressed under former Benfica and Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach Bruno Lage.CARL DE SOUZAAFP
