Manchester United have reportedly reignited their interest in Willian, with Jose Mourinho eager to land the Chelsea winger in the summer.
According to a report by The Sun, Manchester United are set to launch another assault to land Willian in the summer transfer window. The Brazilian winger though, is waiting for Chelsea to initiate talks over a new contract at the end of the season.
Willian’s career with Chelsea has been a mixed bag. The player has battled to keep his stature as a regular intact throughout his five-year stint at Stamford Bridge, and the same has been true under Antonio Conte. The first 18 months under the Italian manager were a struggle for him, with Pedro the preferred player to make up the numbers in the front three.
But, there has been a turnaround in form and fortunes for Willian in 2018, with the Brazilian now one of the most pivotal figures for the Blues. So much so, that the 29-year-old has enjoyed his most productive campaign for Chelsea, with 13 goals and 10 assists in 45 outings, and it comes as no surprise that he has piqued the interest of long-time suitors Manchester United.
The Red Devils have been in pursuit of the player pretty much since the arrival of Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford nearly two years ago. Manchester United had even made an official move for the winger last summer, but were thwarted in their attempts to sign him.
The club has now reignited its interest in Willian, and for good reason. The Manchester United attack has improved considerably under Mourinho, but they still lack a natural winger who can operate on the right flank, with Juan Mata the only player who has shown some consistency in a makeshift slot.
Manchester United are, thus, set to launch the offensive for Willian once again this summer, having monitored on several occasions over the course of the season. The player himself though, appears keen to remain at Stamford Bridge, as he wants to sit down with Chelsea at the end of the season for talks over a new contract.
However, it is unclear if the Blues are willing to offer him a bumper new deal, despite his upturn in form, which would perhaps provide Manchester United a spring in their steps. It is believed that Chelsea would be open to selling Willian for £60 million, if they don’t renew his deal.
With two more years left in his deal, and the player in his prime, the asking price does seem acceptable. But, Manchester United’s biggest stumbling block would be Chelsea’s possible reluctance to do a deal with them, considering the last one ended up strengthening their squad.
In the end, any possible move will also hinge on Willian himself, who is keen on remaining at Chelsea. It now remains to be seen if Manchester United and Mourinho are finally able to land their target man in the summer.
