5 Chelsea stars tipped to inherit Hazard's No.10 jersey at Stamford Bridge (including old and new signings)

5 Chelsea stars tipped to inherit Hazard's No.10 jersey at Stamford Bridge (including old and new signings)

Eden Hazard's departure to Real Madrid earlier in the summer could force Chelsea to look within their ranks for a replacement for the Belgian star.

Hazard swapped life in London for Madrid days after guiding the Blues to Europa League glory against Arsenal in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The move came after a trophy-laden spell at Stamford Bridge that lasted seven season and the playmaker will now undoubtedly go down as a Blues legend.

But with the 28-year-old gone, it leaves an enormous hole in the Chelsea squad, starting with his iconic No.10 shirt.

However, there are several players who will be vying for the jersey - but who deserves it the most?

1. Willian

The Brazilian has been at the club since 2013 making nearly 300 appearances for the West London side.

The 30-year-old has however been accused of lack of consistency, but may feel it is his right to be given the No 10 shirt after his years of service and commitment.

He currently dons the No 22 top at club level but wore 10 for Brazil at the Copa America after Neymar's injury ruled him out of the tournament.

2. Callum Hudson-Odoi

Hudson-Odoi shot into fame last season at Chelsea, and despite lack of game time under former boss, Maurizio Sarri, the youngster impressed whenever he got the chance.

The 18-year-old will be out of contract next summer and the Blues are doing everything within their reach to get the youngster pen a new one.

But with growing interest from Bayern Munich, promising the Englishman the famous No. 10 Chelsea jersey would convince him commit his future with the Blues.

3. Ruben Loftus-Cheek

The midfielder is set to play a major role in the middle of the park after signing a new contract worth £150,000-a-week.

And with the arrival of Frank Lampard as manager, the 23-year-old could be having a better mentor within his disposal.

Loftus-Cheek has in the past made his desire to play in the No. 10 role.

Hazard's departure could see him get the chance to impress, but with the inconsistency of Ross Barkley, the No 8 shirt looks a likelier bet for the Englishman.

4. Mason Mount

He is the unlikeliest candidate for the shirt. But Mount is poised for big things after a brilliant campaign under Lampard at Derby in the Championship.

Chelsea are already in talks to extend his current deal.

5. Christian Pulisic

Pulisic signed for Chelsea in January but is yet to make an appearance in a Blues shirt after being loaned back to Borussia Dortmund.

It appears the Blues board were well aware of Hazard's imminent departure and snapped up the American just in time before their two-window transfer ban.

Lampard may have insisted Pulisic will not fill Hazard's boots - but with the Belgian's former number on his back, the 20-year-old will have to prove his doubters wrong.

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