Vermaelen backs Hazard move

Eden Hazard: Prospective Chelsea new boy has been backed to impress in the Premier League

Thomas Vermaelen believes Eden Hazard will be a good addition to the Premier League and expects his Belgium team-mate to pull in the crowds.

Hazard revealed on Monday that he is going to join UEFA Champions League winners Chelsea after also being targeted by Manchester City and rivals United.

Though Chelsea have yet to officially confirm the deal, Hazard is expected to cost in the region of £32million following his decision to leave French side Lille.

He will offer a glimpse of what he is bringing to English football on Saturday when Belgium take on England at Wembley and Vermaelen has backed the playmaker to be a success.

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Arsenal defender Vermaelen told Sky Sports News: "He is a great player with a lot of special qualities.

"I think he is a player people go to the stadiums for. People will love him and love watching him playing football, so I think he is a good player for the Premier League."

Asked whether Hazard had sought advice from him about a move, Vermaelen said: "He didn't come to me for any advice. I think he has a lot of people around him, so they can give him good advice about which club he should go to."

Sunderland goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, who now faces the prospect of having to keep his fellow countryman at bay in the Premier League, admits Hazard will have a considerable weight of expectation to deal with, but expects to see him shine.

"I think Eden has the qualities and talent to play in England," Mignolet said. "On his day, he can make the difference for his team.

"It is a big step from Lille to Chelsea and he is going to be under some pressure, especially with the money that has been spent, but I think he is a good player and if he is on his day, he can do a good job for Chelsea."