With Frank Lampard currently trying out new things at the Club, many believe the Blues are not playing to their maximum potential. With this new change, Willian has seem to have had enough and reportedly won’t be renewing his contract at Stamford Bridge this summer. New reports suggest, Barcelona are nearing an agreement with Willian. The agreement that would see him move to the Camp Nou when his Chelsea contract expires.
The attacking midfielder, current deal expires in the summer (June) and it is understood that he has no interest in renewing his contract. Reasons being, he wants to try other things and needs a change of scenery. Barcelona are reportedly said to have intentionally stall talks with the winger.
Talks have begun during the January transfer window but have been stalled due to the La Liga giants wanting to take advantage of the free transfer over the summer. However, the La Liga giants are said to be edging closer to wrapping up a pre-contract agreement with the Brazilian.
Willian, who came to Stamford Bridge in 2013 when he joined from Russian outfit Anzhi Makhachkala, made headlines at the time for snubbing a deal with Tottenham Hotspur at the last minute, to join the Blues.
During his spell at Chelsea the 31-year-old has managed to score 32 goals in 221 games. He has won two Premier League title during his time at the club.
Chelsea were reportedly ready to offer him a fresh two-year deal with a third as an option that could be taken up by the club. Frank Lampard has now weighed in in the situation. Speaking, Lampard told media outlets when asked on Willian current contract negotiations,
He said: “I can’t get involved in the money, that’s up to the club, but I think everyone sees I’m relying on him and I love him at this football club. When I looked at him at the start of the season, I saw him being huge for me and the way we want to play.”
“The off-the-ball work he’s done is an absolutely outstanding example for Callum Hudson-Odoi, Christian Pulisic and other young wingers who think the only part of the game is going past people and crossing or shooting. He does the other side brilliantly, with absolute humility, so he’s been a joy and one of the experienced players that’s really helping the young boys.”
“I want to see him happy, I know him and he’s a happy, really easy-going lad who loves his football” he added.
Lampard could possible put the Brazilian back on the sidelines while he plans for his future. Also it’s is believed the winger decision to put on hold is contract renewal talks will effect his time at Stamford bridge. Rumor also have it that Juventus is also interested in signing Willian as well.
