Willian set to stay at Chelsea — report

According to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, Willian is set to stay at Chelsea — at least until the next transfer window. Only a major change in circumstances, such as a huge offer from one of his reported suitors in Barcelona, Manchester United and Real Madrid, would change the situation. That may be an obvious development, but there has been some renewed doubt about the situation following the “strange” case of Willian’s delayed return and possible passport issue.

But Willian is otherwise said to be happy to stay at Chelsea, now that Antonio Conte’s gone. And Chelsea are probably okay with one more season of Willian (and Pedro), both capable wingers with fantastic talent waiting just behind them in Callum Hudson-Odoi.

The only immediately tangible drawback to Willian staying is the stack of cash, counted in tens of millions, that Chelsea are leaving on the table in incoming transfer fees. Those fees could’ve, in turn, be used to sign a replacement, either an already world class player or one who could develop into one with just a little help.

Sarri and Willian are set for some clear-the-air talks this weekend, or perhaps earlier as Willian was back in training today, but barring any drastic changes — something you can’t ever truly count out in Silly Season — this should be the end of Willian’s saga for this summer.

We’ll get to revisit this issue in 6-12 months. For now, it’s time to concentrate on the season ahead, which starts in less than 10 days.

P.S.: In a rather strange and probably unrelated development, Willian has launched legal proceedings against the authors of a fake letter making the football rounds about a change of agent. He apparently never signed or seen this document, and claims that his signature was forged.

In the recent days I have been informed that a “letter of authorization for player agent FIFA”, allegedly signed in my name has been circulated through the football market. In such letter, Mr. Denirobson Dias would grant an authorization to Mr. Renee Pinheiro Anunciação to represent me until 15 August 2018, throughout football clubs in the United Kingdom and France. I would like to clarify that I never signed such letter, the content of which I completely deny. Finally, since there seem to be clear evidence that my signature has been forged, or anyway misused, I hereby inform that my lawyers are already instructed to proceed with all appropriate legal measures before any competent courts or authorities. I hope I have clarified the matter and any possible misunderstanding.