"Big Phil" Scolari offering Chelsea's Brazilian star double the wages offered by Chelsea to move to China.
According to reports over the past few days, "Big Phil" Scolari is trying to lure Willian from Stamford Bridge with a double the wages offered by Chelsea to move to the football revolution in China. Having taken over Guangzhou Evergrande, the ex-Chelsea Manager has made Chelsea's player of the year one of his main targets and is prepared to offer £50m.
We all agree that Willian has been our most consistent player in what has been a really poor season and but for him at times, we would be much worse off in the Premier League table. A hard worker, quick with the ball at his feet, someone who can score and create goals, Willian has been outstanding and has been identified as the next South American import in the Far East.
We all expect one or two of our better players to leave this season as we face a season without European competition. It's natural for players to want to do that as the prestige of playing in the competition and what it means has become so important these days. However, under Antonio Conte with just the Premier League and the two domestic cup competitions to take part in next season, I believe that Chelsea will get back into the top four next season. You just have to wonder if we would be able to convince the players we have in addition to possible transfer targets, if they want to buy into that theory.
The situation in China is ridiculous really isn't it. I understand they are trying to build the reputation of their domestic competition and have got some massive investors to back these intentions. The monies being offered to players as a result is scandalous and you can understand why some of them have made the decision to play their football over there for a couple of seasons based on the fact that they will become financially set up for life.
I guess when it comes down to a rumour such as this, you turn to the player to try and find out what their motivations are. Would they be tempted to take the plunge for a couple of seasons, take the money and then look to come back and carry on with their careers? If they are of a certain age then who can blame them for literally selling out after having played the best part of their careers in Europe to go an earn that final pay day.
However, we have to remember that it's not as if these players are not earning a weekly fortune over here anyway. As I said I can understand those that want to go and earn their money to look to come back after a few seasons as I am sure Ramires has done. But, there are those that are not driven by money and those who realise that Europe is the best place for them to stay with Oscar being a prime example.
As stated on here, it became apparent that Oscar turned down a ridiculous personal offer to move to China in January with Chelsea being offered a staggering amount of money. I respect him for doing so because he is someone that is always in and out of the side dependant on the opposition and it has to be frustrating.
As for Willian? I hope he follows the same path as Oscar and stays here to reject the advances from the Far East. He has really taken to our league and has grown as a player here. You think of how good he has been for us in a team that has struggled this year, imagine he plays at the same level next season with a team where everyone is on form and playing well, I believe he would be even better.
"I have known Willian for many years and as a person he is very down to earth and a nice guy.
On top of that, he is doing a very good job. This year, in a difficult year (for Chelsea), he has been working very hard with his natural ability.
When they defend and sacrifice themselves, he has the attitude to do so. That's why he is already, and can be in the future, a key player for this club."
I just hope that if these reports have substance and an offer comes in, both Chelsea and Willian reject the idea with a real focus on next season under Antonio Conte.