TRANSFERS The situation around Thorgan Hazard at RSC Anderlecht is about more than his impressive statistics. Although the forward has delivered strong performances this season, a contract extension is far from guaranteed. On his 33rd birthday Hazard can look back on a solid season with 12 goals and 8 assists. That places him among the most efficient players in the Jupiler Pro League, just behind names like Nicolas Tresoldi and Christos Tzolis.
Still, that success does not automatically translate into a long-term contract. The Brussels club previously offered a one-year deal with an option for an additional year based on performance. Hazard rejected that proposal. Not so much for financial reasons, but chiefly because he is seeking greater certainty in the form of a contract of at least two years without onerous conditions. Meanwhile Anderlecht, led by Kenneth Bornauw, has put an improved offer on the table. Yet the selection remains the same: a one-year contract with an option.
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Continue reading For Hazard, who wants stability and does not want to be dependent on performance clauses, that is insufficient for now. Why is Anderlecht not fully committing to its experienced attacker? The club is looking beyond goals and assists. Although Hazard performs well in his current role, for example as a false nine, questions remain about his long-term availability. Factors such as age, physical load and tactical plans — including the possible use of a target man — play into the decision. Anderlecht also hopes to be active in Europe again next season. That would mean a heavier schedule in which rotation and physical freshness are crucial. In that scenario, Hazard's exact role would be uncertain.
The player is meanwhile exploring other options. There have already been informal contacts with SV Zulte Waregem, and other clubs have shown interest, including a team that is already certain of European football. For Hazard, clarity is important, preferably as soon as possible. But as long as both parties do not move closer together, his future in Brussels remains uncertain. His performances in the play-offs could prove decisive: strong displays might still convince the club to go beyond their current offer.
