Real Madrid have changed their plans on Chelsea star Eden Hazard.

Speculation linking the Belgian to the Spanish capital has been growing hugely over the past few days in light of the player's father claiming that his son wanted a move there.

It allegedly reached the extent that Hazard was stalling on signing a new contract with Chelsea in order to see what Real would do.

The 26-year-old has been quite openly courted by the World and European champions for some time, although a big-money move for a left-sided forward was always unlikely with Cristiano Ronaldo occupying that role.

But Real's all-time record goalscorer has given up his stranglehold on the role since becoming more of a central player, and at 32-years-old, Los Blancos are finally looking at the position.

Neymar has also been talked about despite his mega-money move to Paris Saint-Germain last summer, although a deal there is going to be about as difficult as can be imagined.

Hazard would be easier, but far from simple. Chelsea would do everything in their considerable power to avoid losing their best player, while a World Cup where Belgium are expected to do well means the time to work on the deal is limited.

But it may be that Chelsea have nothing to fear - Real have other plans.

Spanish outlet Marca reports that the answer to Real's left side is already considered to be at the club in Marco Asensio.

The 21-year-old joined the club from Mallorca in 2014 and has gone on to become one of the most highly-rated young players in the world.

A string of incredible, high profile goals skyrocketed his reputation in 2017, including a goal in the Champions League final back in May and a wonder-strike in the Spanish Supercup against Barcelona at Camp Nou.

His lack of opportunities this season has seen the player linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu, particularly to Manchester United, but Asensio talked down the possibility recently.

While he may not have played as much as he would have liked this year, the club hierarchy believes Asensio is the future of Real, with Marca quoting one senior board figure as saying "Why would we bring in the Belgian [Hazard] if we have Asensio?".

Those are the kind of words that will hit any player - especially one as young as 21 - and the real test for Asensio is whether he can live up to a billing that sees Real prepared to move away from their 'Galacticos' tag.

Putting their faith in a raw, young talent over a superstar signing is new ground for Real Madrid, but Marco Asensio could be the one to break the mould.