Manchester United and City Set for Summer Battle in Signing Chelsea Star Eden Hazard - Report

Manchester United and Manchester City are set for summer battle in signing Chelsea star Eden Hazard at the end of the season.

The Manchester Evening News reports both United and City are on alert following the comments made by the Belgium international after the Blues Champions League exit. Jose Mourinho's side suffered a 3-1 home defeat to Atletico Madrid and the result ended their dream of making it to the finals of the European competition.

Hazard expressed his frustration over the former Real Madrid manager's tactics during their latest defeat. The 23-year-old slammed the Chelsea boss and claims he was not happy with the Portuguese tactician's style of play.

"Chelsea aren't set up to play football. Chelsea are set up to counter-attack. We failed to make the difference in the second half. Often, I'm asked to do it all by myself and it's not easy. It was a complicated game. It will be a lesson for us regarding next year," Hazard told beIN SPORTS' French station.

United and City have been monitoring the Belgium playmaker even before he agreed to join Chelsea from Lille in 2012. He rejected the chance to join either of the Manchester clubs and agreed terms with Chelsea.

Hazard's latest comments have alerted both the Red Devils and their neighbours as they look to make another approach for the Chelsea star in the summer transfer window. The Belgian has been in impressive form for the Stamford Bridge club, scoring 14 goals and managing seven assists in the league this season.

The former Lille star's form has seen him being named the PFA Young Player of the Year. He finished second, behind Liverpool striker Luis Suarez for the PFA Player of the Year award.

United and City's hope of signing Hazard at the end of the season has been further boosted. The Mirror claims Mourinho is preparing a major shake-up at the west London club and is looking to allow a few of his key players to leave the club in order to bring in a world-class striker.

According to the Mirror, Hazard and David Luiz are set for a summer exit as the Portuguese boss is targeting young players and a top quality striker. The sale of the Chelsea duo would see Mourinho help the Blues balance the books.

A move for Hazard to Old Trafford will help United regain their dominance in English football. Should he make a summer switch to the Etihad, it is likely to boost City's chances of winning the Champions League next season.