Manchester United are prepared to offer Anthony Martial in an attempt to prise away Chelsea winger Willian.
According to a report from the Mirror, Manchester are plotting an audacious move for Chelsea’s Willian by offering Anthony Martial in exchange. United boss Jose Mourinho is said to be keen on forming a reunion with the Brazilian superstar, who is also being courted by Barcelona.
It is believed that Willian does not share a healthy relationship with newly appointed Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri, having returned late from his extended summer vacation. As a result, United believe they stand with a chance of landing the Brazilian as we approach the final week before the transfer window slams shut.
Very often have the Red Devils been criticized for lack of their attacking potency. Especially under Mourinho, United have been notoriously identified as a defensive-oriented team, whose lack of attacking endeavours have indeed left them lagging behind their cross-town rivals Manchester City.
But, the infusion of Willian will definitely add an extra dimension in their attack, which already boasts the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku and Jesse Lingard among others.
The Chelsea superstar is blessed with immense qualities in the final third, especially when it comes to link-up play. His ability to gel with his teammates in the attacking half has helped Chelsea secure two titles since he initially moved to Stamford Bridge back in 2013. His partnership with Eden Hazard, in particular, has been regarded as one of the best in the Premier League.
At the same time, Willian is also very productive, having been involved in 83 goals during his five-year stint with the Blues. He has been consistently involved in at least ten goals in each of the past two seasons despite racking up less than 2,000 minutes of Premier League action on both the occasions.
Additionally, he also has the experience of working under Mourinho in the past. The duo worked together during their time at Chelsea, where the Brazilian netted 14 goals and mustered 15 assists under the Portuguese mastermind.
He can be deployed as a right-winger in Manchester United’s 4-2-3-1 formation with Alexis Sanchez playing on the opposite flank. While he may have the tendency to cut in from wide areas, his proficiency of delivering accurate crosses definitely chimes in with Mourinho’s tactics, especially with Lukaku lurking around the penalty box. Thus, he is indeed a viable target for the Red Devils.
As for Martial, Mourinho’s lack of appreciation towards the French international was well documented. But Chelsea, given the fact that they might have to lose Willian one way or another could fancy agreeing to swap the Brazillian for Martial, who is by no means an ordinary talent.
The former AS Monaco starlet has already shown glimpses of his brilliance during his three-year stint at Old Trafford. Thus, he could be a valuable addition to Chelsea especially with the likes of Pedro and Cesc Fabregas struggling with form.
