Chelsea must have known they would likely have to deal with rampant interest in Eden Hazard given his sensational form this season.

Under the guidance of Antonio Conte, the Belgian has left the doldrums of last term behind him and reminded the world of his potential to become one of the greatest players of his generation.

Hazard has looked close to the at times unstoppable force he was during the Blues’ last title-winning campaign in 2014/15, contributing 11 goals and four assists in all competitions to date.

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Naturally, the 26-year-old’s return to sparkling form has led to whispers of Real Madrid rekindling their interest in his services.

There has been talk of Hazard being used as part of a deal to bring one or both of James Rodriguez and Alvaro Morata to Stamford Bridge – not that it has eased the concern among Chelsea fans.

But amid all the speculation surrounding his future in west London, Hazard has offered a big hint regarding his current state of mind.

Speaking in an interview with the official club website, the former Lille winger was asked where he sees himself living after retiring from football.

In response, Hazard said: “I don’t know, it’s hard to say. Maybe I will live in Belgium, to be close to the family, or else I could go somewhere with nice weather.

“My kids are very settled in London so it could be here, that’s a long way off yet so we will see.”

Like Hazard suggests, the end of his career is a long way down the track, but that does little to change the fact he will surely be a key figure at Chelsea until the day he leaves.

Even with the Premier League title within reach in his first season at the club, Conte has only just started building a squad capable of competing at the business end of the Champions League.

Losing a player like Hazard would be a major setback in his long-term plans, regardless of how much money he fetches the club or who replaces him.

It is unlikely to be the last time Madrid or another European superpower comes calling, but Chelsea fans will be relieved to hear their star man is content with life in London – for now.