Newcastle United make shock bid for Eden Hazard

Newcastle United have made an opening bid for Real Madrid forward Eden Hazard ahead of the January transfer window.

The Belgian has struggled with multiple injuries during his time at Los Blancos. He has made just 54 appearances over two years.

According to El Nacional, the Magpies have now made a formal bid to bring Hazard back to the Premier League this winter.

The club are willing to pay around £34m for his services, but Los Blancos want at least £42m to sanction his sale next month.

Hazard has been a regular on the bench this term with Carlo Ancelotti making it clear that he has better players to pick.

The attacker is open to returning to the English top-flight. He would ideally prefer to rejoin Chelsea, where he spent seven seasons.

The Blues don't seem to be interested in a permanent deal, and that could dent his chances of a potential reunion next month.

It is unclear whether Hazard would consider joining the Magpies despite their Saudi-led takeover. They are currently bottom of the league.