As per a recent update from English newspaper Daily Telegraph, Real Madrid still owe Chelsea a sum of £5 million (€6 million) for the acquisition of Eden Hazard.

Eden Hazard’s stint at Real Madrid is widely regarded as one of the club’s most regrettable signings in its history. The transaction took place in 2019, with Real Madrid shelling out £130 million upfront and an additional £40 million tied to his performance and other factors. 

Despite Hazard’s departure last summer with a year remaining on his contract, financial obligations related to his tenure persist.

Why does Madrid owe Chelsea more money?

Interestingly, the agreement reached between the parties allowed Real Madrid to conclude Hazard’s tenure at Santiago Bernabeu prematurely, sparing them another year of contractual obligations. 

However, this arrangement does not absolve Real Madrid from their financial commitments, as outlined in their deal with Chelsea. 

Chelsea, on the other hand, stand to gain €6 million due to a clause triggered by Real Madrid’s qualification for the Champions League final at Wembley this season.

This monetary bonus was stipulated in the original contract, contingent upon Real Madrid’s advancement to the final stages of the prestigious European competition. Despite Hazard’s absence from the current squad, Real Madrid are obligated to fulfil this payment. 

It must be noted that Hazard’s tenure at Real Madrid was marred by injuries, resulting in limited playing time.

Over the course of four seasons, he managed to participate in only 76 matches across all competitions while scoring just seven goals, four of which were scored in La Liga.

In summary, Real Madrid’s financial obligations stemming from Hazard’s transfer remain unsettled, with the club still owing Chelsea a significant sum. 

Despite Hazard’s early departure and the subsequent termination of his contract, contractual clauses necessitate continued payments, underscoring the complexities and enduring consequences of high-profile football transfers.