Crystal Palace 'failed with summer move for Eden Hazard'

Crystal Palace were reportedly unable to tempt Eden Hazard back to the Premier League earlier this summer.

The 32-year-old is currently a free agent, with his contract at Real Madrid being terminated at the end of last season despite having another 12 months left to run on his deal.

According to journalist Dean Jones, Palace attempted to sign the experienced forward during the summer but were unsuccessful, and there are strong rumours that Hazard could soon announce his retirement.

"It would not surprise me if Hazard does now retire from football. There have been some strong offers for him, even the Crystal Palace one for him to play again in the Premier League was a legit one, but the motivation for him to make a comeback does not seem to be there," Jones told GIVEMESPORT.

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"It's been a long time since he was playing, he would have to work extremely hard to get back to top condition - meaning actually playing top level games could take a while.

"He's a free agent so clubs that have shown interest have not closed the door, but this is a player that is very self assured, is not affected by outside noise or behaviours, and will make the decision completely on his own terms."

Hazard has recently hinted that he is considering retirement, saying in the documentary series 'Believe': "Little by little it's time to enjoy life with my family and friends, drinking a few Jupiler beers."

The forward was regarded as one of the best youngsters in world football during his time at Lille, and Chelsea managed to beat Manchester United to his signature in the summer of 2012.

Hazard had a hugely successful period with Chelsea, representing the Blues on 352 occasions, scoring 110 goals and registering 92 assists in the process.

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The attacker won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, the EFL Cup and two Europa League titles at Stamford Bridge ahead of a high-profile move to Real Madrid.

Hazard won two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, the Spanish Super Cup, the Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup during his time at Bernabeu.

However, he found it difficult to make his mark, only managing seven goals and 12 assists in 76 appearances in all competitions, and he was restricted to just 10 appearances last season.

Hazard, who retired from international duty after the 2022 World Cup, had a number of fitness problems during his time at Bernabeu, and an agreement was reached for him to leave Real Madrid this summer in search of pastures new.