Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard is delaying putting pen to paper on a £300,000 a week new contract, according to reports in the UK.

The Blues have reportedly opened talks with the Belgian international and proposed a deal that would be worth in excess of £15.6m a year, making him the best-paid player at the club.

Hazard recently said he is considering his options with the 27-year-old having openly stated his desire to play for Real Madrid.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri confirmed at his pre-match conference yesterday that the club are waiting for the Belgian to sign on the dotted line:

“Eden is very important for us, like every special player. He’s important for his club. I think the club is available to sign a new contract immediately, but it’s up to him if he wants to renew or not.”

Hazard’s current deal expires in 18 months’ time and while the midfielder has not ruled out staying at Stamford Bridge for the rest of his career, the more he delays, the more concern there will be that he won’t sign.

The Blues are said to be optimistic that Hazard will agree to a contract extension, but they are now waiting for a final decision from the player.