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What’s the rumour?
The latest rumours from The Sun suggests that Jose Mourinho wants to bring Chelsea's Willian to Manchester United this summer. Mourinho is a huge admirer of the Brazilian and would want to link-up with him again.
In case you didn't know:
Willian was signed by Mourinho during his second stint at the club in 2013. The pair always had mutual respect between them and Willian quickly established himself as a regular in the Chelsea team that would eventually win the league in 2015.
The Brazilian was a subject of interest from United last summer but a move was not feasible. United may go after him again in the next transfer window as Mourinho remains a huge admirer of the player.
The heart of the matter:
Mourinho has tinkered with the team selection this term and has deployed many players on the flanks, especially at right wing. No one has been able to impress and play well consistently.
The problem was supposed to be resolved when they signed Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal, but the Chilean has been played mostly on the left wing and as a no.10 behind Lukaku. Although they have the manpower, they still lack quality in the wide areas.
Willian has made the right wing his own during his time in England and has excellent set-piece taking ability as well. Jose wants a player who can immediately make an impact and the 29-year-old appears to be one of the first names on his transfer shortlist.
Rumour probability - 6/10
It's no surprise that Mourinho wants Willian at Old Trafford. But a move is unlikely to materialise considering the run of form the player is in and how he has established himself as a regular under Conte, despite initial difficulties.
It remains to be seen, if Conte himself will be at Chelsea's helm next season, but they would definitely want to keep one of their star players and not sell him to a direct rival.
Video: Willian in 2018
Author’s take
Willian would be a definite upgrade on United's current wingers and will add more firepower to their attack. He is rated at £60 million by Chelsea which may ward off many potential suitors. Chelsea would not want to strengthen a direct rival again, as they did with the transfer of Nemanja Matic, and are likely to hold on to the player.
