Chelsea join Eden Hazard race

Chelsea have joined the host of clubs competing for Lille playmaker Eden Hazard.

Tottenham Hotspur were considered to be leading the chase for the 21-year-old, with manager Harry Redknapp openly speaking of his desire to bring him to White Hart Lane.

However, Redknapp has conceded that it will be difficult to compete financially with Manchester United and Manchester City, who are also interested parties.

The Stamford Bridge side have now made Spurs' task even harder by declaring their intention to bid for the Belgian international.

Hazard has a £34m release clause in his current contract at the reigning French champions and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has given the Blues his blessing to match that fee, according to the Sunday Times.

Hazard has scored 20 goals in 74 league games for Lille.