May 29, 2012 08:25 AM EDT
Chelsea beat Man United and City to Hazard

As expected, Belgian wonderkid Eden Hazard confirmed his move to Chelsea.

Using his twitter account to announce the decision, Hazard said: "I am signing for the Champions League winner.

A little earlier Hazard had said he had made up his mind with several quarters, including Tottenham striker Louis Saha, suggesting the playmaker was on his way to Chelsea.

Prior to his announcement, Hazard said: ""Good afternoon guys. I made up my mind. See you later. Thanks."

The 21-year-old midfielder will reportedly earn a staggering $156,000 per week after tax with Chelsea paying Lille $50 million for his signature.

Roman Abramovich has stated his intent for next season by signing one of Europe's most coveted players and it is understood the Russian owner played a big part in the Belgian's decision to join Chelsea.

Hazard, before announcing his signing, had said playing time and the position he would play, would make a big difference in his decision, stating that he wanted to play in the No 10 role, just behind the striker. However, Chelsea already have a player who can play just behind the striker in Jaun Mata.

The Spaniard is coming off an impressive debut season with the European Champions and won the Chelsea player-of-the year award for 2011-12. So, whoever takes charge of Chelsea, will have to find a way to accommodate both the playmakers in the playing eleven. Mata and Hazard along with another new signing Marko Marin, however, represent an exciting band of young midfielders fully capable of giving Fernando Torres the kind of service he needs to hit his scoring heights.

Man City reportedly pulled out of the deal because of Hazard and his agent's astronomical demands, allowing Abramovich to swoop in.

Manchester United had tried to tempt Hazard by ensuring him first-team football and the famous No 7 shirt. However, the Belgian, wooed by Abramovich and buoyed by Chelsea's Champions League victory, chose the Blue side of London.

Abramovich is desperate to assemble a young and vibrant squad capable of playing the attractive soccer he has been craving for years. The Chelsea owner will now turn his attentions towards another big player - Hulk. The Brazilian is another who has been heavily linked with the Blues with the striker's agent even stating they would prefer a move to Chelsea.

It is understood a fee similar to Hazard's will tempt Porto to let go of their player, despite a massive $125 million buyout clause.

Meanwhile, Champions League final hero Petr Cech signed a new four-year deal with Chelsea, which will keep him at Stamford Bridge till 2016.

"I'm really happy to be a part of this great club for the next four years," Cech told the club's official website. "I hope the next four years will be as successful as the last eight years I have been at the club." 

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