Brazilian legend, Rivaldo, has now urged Willian to join Spurs when his contract with Chelsea runs out in the summer.
The winger is expected to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of this season after revealing that talks with the Blues over a new deal have hit a dead-end (Gazeta Esportiva).
Tottenham were initially established as the favourites to land the 31-year-old by Mundo Deportivo while Football Insider also backed the Lilywhites to move early and offer the winger a bumper deal.
However, ESPN Brazil journalist Jorge Nicola (as relayed by the Evening Standard) asserted earlier in the week that Tottenham’s North London rivals Arsenal were leading the race for Willian.
Rivaldo has asked the Chelsea star to pick Spurs as his next destination as he feels linking up with Jose Mourinho again will help the Brazilian to rediscover his best form.
Speaking to Betfair (as relayed by the Evening Standard), the former Barcelona midfielder said: “Willian is attracting some headlines in England as his contract with Chelsea is expiring this summer and there are strong rumours that he may move to a London rival soon.
“Yes, Willian is already playing at a big club, but he has been there for a long time and perhaps he needs a new challenge to recapture his will and motivation at this point in his career in the Premier League.
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“A move to Tottenham could be a good option, especially because Willian would reunite with his former coach Jose Mourinho there, and the pair seem to have a good relationship.
“Furthermore, we all know that Mourinho has a special affection for Brazilian players and I am sure he would give lots of opportunities to Willian at Spurs.”
The 2002 World Cup winner also insisted that moving to Spurs would help to boost Willian’s international prospects.
Rivaldo added: “Willian has been a regular player for the Brazilian national team, with almost 70 caps, so he will be part of Tite’s thinking for next year’s Copa America. A big move might be just what the player needs in the season leading up to the Copa.
“At 31, he still has lots of football to play and I’m confident that if he moves to the Spurs he will become an important player for them.”
Spurs Web Opinion
I believe the Willian transfer saga is going to drag on and on this summer. He is likely to have plenty of options to chose from as free agents are now in demand. Hopefully, his relationship with Mourinho gives us an edge in the race as I believe he can be a terrific squad option for us despite his age.
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