Real Madrid 'abandon' plans to lure Eden Hazard from Chelsea to give Marco Asensio more prominent role
- Real Madrid have been continuously linked with move for Eden Hazard
- Marca now report that Los Blancos are to focus on developing Marco Asensio
- Members of Real board believe Asensio should be given more game time
Real Madrid are to shelve plans to sign Chelsea star Eden Hazard in order to allow Marco Asensio time and opportunity to flourish.
Spanish publication Marca report that Los Blancos have now 'abandoned' a possible move for Hazard.
Members of the board at the Bernabeu are believed to rate Asensio so highly they feel a move for the Belgian would only inhibit his progress.
Real Madrid's interest in signing Eden Hazard no longer exists according to Marca
There are many at the Bernabeu who believe Marco Asensio should be given more game time
It appeared that Hazard had been pushing for a move away from London, with his father claiming he turned down a contract offer at Stamford Bridge in order to encourage Real.
The technically gifted winger starred for Chelsea in last season's Premier League win but a move to the Spanish champions now looks unlikely.
Zidane's squad is packed full of quality with almost an embarrassment of riches but it seems there will not be a continued pursuit of Hazard, and Asensio now set for a more prominent role.
The Spaniard burst onto the scene but has failed to nail down a regular starting role in Zinedine Zidane's side this season.
Asensio (left) has featured mainly as a substitute for Los Blancos so far during this season
The 21-year-old has delivered when called upon with four goals and three assists from ten starts and nine appearances off the bench.
And Asensio is expected to be given the chance to prove his worth with upcoming Copa del Rey fixtures allowing squad rotation.
He will hope to get the nod from Zidane in Real's first game of the new year on Thursday when Los Blancos visit Numancia.
Most watched Sport videos
- Ten Hag says missing out on European football 'hugely damaging'
- Tom Brady on target with pass to launch E1 Venice GP
- Man United celebrate their 3rd goal in front of their fans
- Man United Women's trophy lift after 4-0 FA Cup final win
- Caitlin Clark and teammates catch first-ever WNBA charter flight
- Usyk opens up on his father and sends a final message to Fury
- Man United Women walk the steps to collect their FA Cup medals
- Gareth Southgate addresses Manchester United speculation
- Tyson Fury's dad John bloodied after clash with Usyk's team
- The moment John Fury headbutts a member of Usyk's team
- 'Grotesque' cast suggest touchdown celebrations for Travis Kelce
- Arsenal fans MOCK Man United's leaking roof as they celebrate win