Eden Hazard confirms he wanted to leave Chelsea last summer

Chelsea attacker Eden Hazard has disclosed that he had been keen on parting ways with the Blues during the backend of the summer transfer window.

The Belgium international had initially indicated that he could pursue a fresh challenge shortly after the World Cup but he thereafter made a surprise U-turn to remain with the Blues.

Speaking to BT Sport, he has now revealed that a summer move to Spain could have been on the cards, had he not been convinced by new boss Maurizio Sarri to stay.

"I will tell you the truth, after the World Cup I wanted to leave because my dream is to play in Spain," Hazard told BT Sport. "But then I talk with the board, the manager and I said 'you don't want me to leave, I can stay'."

The attacker added that he is pleased with the proceedings under the new head coach and he may now consider penning a new long-term deal with the west London giants.

Hazard has been offered a free role since Sarri took over at the helm and this has paid dividends with him contributing seven goals and two assists across all competitions this term.