Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has claimed that Willian is likely to leave the Premier League when his contract with Chelsea runs out this summer.
Although Spurs have been linked heavily with Willian (Mundo Deportivo), it is clear that there will be considerable competition for the winger’s signature this summer.
Recent reports have suggested that Liverpool (Sport via Sport Witness), Arsenal (ESPN Brazil journalist Jorge Nicola) and Newcastle (Football Insider) could all challenge Spurs for the Brazilian’s signature.
The 31-year-old dropped a hint in a recent interview with Desimpedidos’ Bolivia Talk Show where he seemed to suggest that he would be open to a move to Chelsea’s London rivals, Arsenal and Tottenham.
He talked about the special relationship he shares with Jose Mourinho and claimed that moving to one of Chelsea’s rivals ‘would be fine’ as long as he left the Blues in good terms.
However, despite those hints, Keown believes that the Chelsea star is hopeful of joining Real Madrid or Barcelona if he does leave Stamford Bridge.
Speaking about Arsenal’s rumoured interest in Willian, the former England international told talkSPORT (as relayed by the Express): “I don’t see him going to Arsenal. I think he’s aiming for Barcelona or Real Madrid.
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“He’s an incredible talent. Chelsea will be weaker if he goes but Frank Lampard knows what he’s doing. I’m sure he wants to keep him.”
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It is unclear if Keown has some inside information about Willian or is just voicing his opinion on the rumoured transfer. However, what is clear is that Willian himself seems to prefer to stay at Chelsea if they offer him a three-year deal, failing which he seems to prefer a move to another London club.
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