Tuesday, 31st May, 2011
Barcelona are stepping up their interest in Shakhtar Donetsk attacking midfielder Willian, but could face opposition from both Arsenal and Chelsea.
The recently crowned European champions have been linked with the 22-year-old previously and the Spanish side’s scouts have run the rule over several Shakhtar Donetsk players.
And it is Willian who has caught the eye.
The Brazilian was a key force behind Shakhtar’s domestic double winning season, with bitter rivals Dynamo Kyiv pipped into runners-up spot in both the Ukrainian Premier League and cup. And Mircea Lucescu’s side also impressed in their run to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, topping a group including Arsenal.
Willian cost the Ukrainian giants a substantial $19M to buy from Corinthians and at the time was tipped as one of the next big things in Brazilian football, having starred with the country’s Under-20 side.
The 22-year-old has also come to the attention of English Premier League duo Arsenal and Chelsea, and a move from either of the London sides cannot be ruled out. Arsenal especially had the opportunity to observe the player at close quarters this season.
Should Shakhtar be willing to part ways with Willian, and the midfielder would surely be interested in a move westwards, which would help his international prospects, then the Ukrainians will need to be made an attractive offer.
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