Chelsea midfielder Willian has revealed that Manchester United were interested in signing him in the summer
According to GloboEsporte, United made their interest known to Willian after Jose Mourinho took over at Old Trafford but the Brazilian stayed at Stamford Bridge. Willian said there were other clubs interested in him as well, although he did not know who they were. He also went on to say he was happy to stay at Chelsea and felt comfortable in London.
“Concrete I do not know, right? But there was interest, yes,”he said, according to GloboEsporte. “It was (from) Manchester United, because Mourinho is there too. Other clubs I do not know, but there are always some things on the internet. But I’m glad to know that clubs have to admire my work.”
“I’m happy at Chelsea, I feel very good there, like it’s my home. It’s practically my house, It’s going to be my fourth year with the club. I have the affection of everyone there, I am well adapted to the city, my family loves to live in London.”
Willian has been a key player for Chelsea this season as Antonio Conte’s men look to clinch the Premier League title in the Italian’s first season in charge. The Brazilian international has scored 5 goals and picked up 1 assists in 20 appearances in the league – 8 of which have come as a substitute.
Willian was a regular feature under Jose Mourinho and it is no surprise the Manchester United manager wanted to sign him in the summer. Reports even emerged in November that Mourinho was planning a £25 million swoop for the Chelsea winger in January.
Chelsea had to beat off interest from Tottenham and Liverpool to sign Willian in a £30 million deal in 2013 Anzi Makhachkala. The midfielder himself has spoken about how he nearly joined Spurs but had no problem turning them down once Chelsea showed their interest.
He quickly became a fan favourite after arriving at Stamford Bridge thanks to his hardworking, tenacious performances and was named Chelsea’s Player of the Season last year. The midfielder had to deal with the unfortunate passing of his mother this season but now looks like he is back on track and has been one of Chelsea’s most consistent players.
He has had to battle it out with Pedro for a spot on the right wing but as Chelsea fans have come to expect he has not complained about his situation and has always put in good performances whenever called upon.
Mourinho – who already has enough wingers at the club even after letting Memphis Depay leave for Lyon – is clearly still a huge admirer and it would be no surprise to see the Manchester United manager attempt to sign Willian once again this summer.
