In a recent Q&A with Sky Sports, a Liverpool correspondent of the news agency, Vinny O’Connor had ruled out an approach from Liverpool to sign Chelsea winger Willian this summer when he said, “I was told categorically that there is no truth whatsoever in the Willian talks, that there is ZERO interest in signing him. That makes sense given he’s now 31 and does not really fit with Liverpool’s recruitment model, even taking into account his availability on a free.”
Willian’s Impressive Form Under Frank Lampard’s Tutelage
If accurate, this latest development doesn’t come as a surprise as the Brazilian playmaker does not fit Liverpool owners, Fenway Sports Group’s model of signing promising, young players as they will add long-term value to the club. Even though the 31-year-old has enjoyed another impressive season at Stamford Bridge so far, yet there is no hiding from the fact that he is slowing down with each season.
Willian has lost a yard of pace from his game and can go missing in specific matches at the highest level. However, to his credit, the veteran wide player has done remarkably well to bang in seven goals and provide six assists in 37 appearances for the West London giants this term across all competitions.
The former Corinthians talent has averaged 1.9 shots, 1.8 key passes and 1.9 dribbles in every 90 minutes of Premier League football this season. Surprisingly, he has performed even better in Europe where he has averaged 1.4 shots, 2.7 key passes and 4.0 dribbles per game in the seven UEFA Champions League matches he has been a part of thus far (stats via whoscored).
The experienced attacker has also earned 69 senior caps for the Brazilian national side, netting nine goals for his country in the process. If Willian can maintain his high standards in the upcoming campaign, then he should have a good chance of being named in Tite’s squad for next year’s Copa America.
What Does The South American Sensation Bring To The Table?
Willian still has enough pace left in his tank to make some driving runs with the ball down the right flank. He excels at beating his marker using his football intelligence and trickery out on the wide areas. The Brazilian is also a potent goal-threat from long range as he can drive the ball with a lot of power and accuracy. The Chelsea veteran has also shown with his performances this season that he can create some decent openings for his teammates going forward.
Are The Reds Making A Big Mistake By Not Showing Interest In Recruiting Willian?
A winger of Willian’s experience and quality could have served as a decent option for Jurgen Klopp to consider in this off-season. He would not only have added a few goals and assists to the Liverpool frontline, but also provided some healthy competition for the likes of Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah at Anfield.
Therefore, not opting to sign the Chelsea star, who is set to become a free agent later this summer, feels like a mistake by the Merseyside outfit. Klopp needs to recruit more players with experience to blend in with his younger stars so that he can make the most out of the current Liverpool squad which is brimming with world-class internationals.
With all things considered, the Reds would be wise to reconsider their stance on Willian as he will fit Klopp’s playing style perfectly and offer a lot of wisdom in the dressing room for at least a couple of more seasons. Plus, the fact that he is already Premier League tested and will be available for free makes him a low-risk, high reward signing for any of his potential suitors.
