'Chelsea would need to buy a whole new squad!' - Hazard & Willian exit talk concerns Bridge

Chelsea parting with Eden Hazard and Willian during the summer transfer window would leave them needing to “buy a whole new squad”, says Wayne Bridge.

There is a very real threat that the Blues could find themselves without the services of one or both of their two key creative influences in 2018-19.

Hazard continues to spark talk of a move to Real Madrid, after several windows of speculation, while Willian has emerged as a target for La Liga giants Barcelona.

Chelsea are understandably reluctant to part with the Belgium and Brazil internationals, with Bridge pointing out that a major rebuilding job would be required if sales are sanctioned.

The former Blues defender told the Daily Star: “The two players I wouldn’t let go is Willian and Eden Hazard. 

“Those two are brilliant and how Willian didn’t play more games is beyond me. 

“If he goes and Hazard does, Chelsea would need to buy a whole new squad.

“You’d need to replace them with world-class stars and that will cost a lot of money.” 

Hazard has kept the door open to those in Madrid with comments on his future, with Chelsea facing a tough choice if he does push for a move.

Bridge added: “I don’t know what’s going through his head. Real Madrid is a massive club. 

“But I think Chelsea will be doing all they can to keep hold of him. 

“It’s a case of weighing up the options for Chelsea. 

“If he really wants to go are you going to keep a player who doesn’t want to be there?” 

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Part of the problem for Hazard, and the rest of those is Stamford Bridge, is the uncertainty which continues to shroud the managerial situation in west London.

Former Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League, but Antonio Conte is yet to be relieved of his services.

“Everyone needs to know who the new manager is and then hopefully you can get some top quality players,” said Bridge.

“To me it all seems a bit up in air and it’s a bit worrying really - especially with Roman Abramovich not being allowed in the country.”