According to Tuttosport, as cited by Sky Sports, Juventus are keeping tabs on Willian’s situation at Chelsea. The winger’s current contract at the club expires at the end of the season, and he could be available for a pre-contract agreement in January. It is believed Juve might make a move next summer should Willian plan to see out his contract at Chelsea.
Willian’s spell at Chelsea so far
Willian initially joined Chelsea back in 2013, in a €35 million move from Shakhtar Donetsk. Since then, the Brazilian has been one of the most productive attackers for the west London giants – bettered only by the mercurial Eden Hazard.
During his ongoing six-year spell at Chelsea, Willian has featured in almost 300 competitive matches, in which he has scored 52 goals while providing 53 assists. His contributions in attack notably helped the Pensioners secure the Premier League title twice as well as the Europa League last season.
The 31-year-old is also the club’s 13th highest goalscorer and third-highest by any winger – topped only by Salomon Kalou and again, Hazard.
A miserable start under Frank Lampard
While Willian has had a pretty decent career at Chelsea, he’s certainly not enjoying the best of seasons under new manager Frank Lampard. The club legend has already emphasised on the development of younger players, notably giving out first-team opportunities to Mason Mount and Fikayo Timori this campaign.
Willian was, however, picked ahead of young American sensation Christian Pulisic, of late. But, he didn’t really manage to make any impact. Especially in the defeat to Liverpool, the Brazilian was barely involved in the proceedings, and his attacking runs were often ineffective. The winger has failed to get involved in a single goal in any competition so far this season.
A new start for Chelsea
Willian’s departure from Stamford Bridge could be a part of Chelsea’s transition next summer when their transfer ban finally comes to an end. The Blues, quite naturally, are expected to invest a lot of money in the market, especially in search of new wingers and strikers.
Willian, to that end, is unlikely to have a long-term future at the club. Not to mention, the ex-Shakhtar winger will turn 32 by the end of the current campaign.
Therefore, the Blues should move on and let Willian leave the club next summer. But, they need to be careful with their market activity. Kai Havertz, for one, could be a viable target as he can solve their shortcomings in the creative department.
