With the return of football up in the air, attention is starting to turn to who and how Arsenal will be able to strengthen their squad this summer.
The coronavirus situation looks like it will force the Gunners into free transfers and swap deals, and in terms of players available for free, there are not many better options than Willian.
As reported by Metro, in an interview with a Brazilian YouTube channel, the soon to be out of contract Brazilian midfielder admitted he would be open to joining a rival club, amid interest from Arsenal and Tottenham.
He may be 31 years old, but Arsenal lack experienced quality in wide areas and with over 200 games for Chelsea, Willian has exactly that. His work rate is certainly admirable and would appeal to boss Mikel Arteta, as would his work rate.
With 70 caps for his country, Willian is a cultured option to strengthen the Gunners midfield and one that Arsenal fans shouldn’t ignore.
In Saka, Nelson, Pepe and Martinelli, Arsenal have options on the wing but all of these players are young and raw, with lots to work on in terms of becoming consistent. Willian could come into the team tomorrow and play at a level good enough to start for Arsenal and help them back to the Champions League.
The contract will be the big issue. Willian will have no shortage of suitors and with his super-agent Kia, you can be sure the player will be asking for a bumper 3-year deal and a substantial signing on fee.
Settled in London already, it is no surprise that Arsenal and Tottenham are the most heavily linked to sign Willian, time will tell which side of North London he chooses, but a reunion with Jose Mourinho must be tempting.