Transfer news: 57-goal Chelsea star decides to join La Liga giants in the summer

Willian to join Barcelona when his contract expires in the summer

Brazilian midfielder Willian has decided to join Barcelona at the expiry of his Chelsea contract in the summer, according to Marca (h/t Daily Mail).

The 31-year-old is in the final few months of his contract and is keen on renewing with the Blues. The player has been left frustrated by the lack of progress in his contract negotiations and has opened negotiations with other clubs.

Since joining Chelsea in 2013, Willian has gone on to score 57 times in 323 appearances for the club. (h/t Whoscored)

According to Spanish publication Marca (h/t Daily Mail), the player has met twice with Barcelona representatives and is close to agreeing on a move to the Nou Camp.

Barcelona have been interested in signing Willian for the last couple of seasons. The player was close to a move in 2017 but instead chose to stay with the Blues. (h/t Express)

Willian joined Chelsea in 2013 after a transfer merry go round. Spurs looked to have beaten the Reds to the player, only for Chelsea to swoop in and sign him at the 11th hour. (h/t BBC)

The player is represented by Sport Invest, the same agency as Coutinho.

More Chelsea News

• Edinson Cavani’s transfer to Atletico Madrid breaks down
• Tariq Lamptey agrees to Brighton switch much to Lampard’s dismay
• Chelsea in talks to sign Napoli forward Dries Mertens

Willian is one of the most experienced players in the youth revolution being brought about by Frank Lampard. Losing him will lead to a hole in the Chelsea squad that isn’t easy to replicate.

Chelsea should do everything in their powers to keep the Brazilian who has been a loyal servant to the club for six seasons now. Willian has made 31 appearances for Chelsea this season and has scored five goals and five assists. (h/t Whoscored)