It's shaping up to be the biggest transfer battle of the summer. Eden Hazard has his sights set on English football – ''My objective is to go to the Premier League'' – and after being a spectator at the recent Manchester derby, rumours have intensified about what colours the 21-year-old will be wearing next season.
For years, some of Europe's biggest clubs have been in the hunt for Hazard's signature. But with Roberto Mancini and Sir Alex Ferguson both recently confirming their interest in the Belgium winger, Manchester looks ready to welcome a new star name to the city.
Hazard seems certain to quit Lille at the end of the season, after confirming his desire to play in the Premier League. “My objective is the Premier League, I want to play in England. Maybe in the future I will return to France but for now I am concentrating on finishing the season with Lille to the best of my ability, and then going to England.”
The Belgian star, 21, impressed Manchester onlookers Patrick Viera (Man City football development executive) & Martin Ferguson (Man United scout) during Lille's 2-1 defeat of Paris St. Germain on Sunday, scoring twice in a match-winning performance for les Dogues. Just 24 hours later, the winger was in attendance at the derby showdown.
The cheque-book power of Manchester City could dictate the destination of Hazard's signature this summer. But with United boss Sir Alex Ferguson having made him a top priority in the loom of the transfer window, it will be a hard-fought battle for one of football's most exciting young players.
Let us know what colours you think Eden Hazard will be playing in next season. Share your thoughts and join the conversation online, on Twitter and on Facebook.