Chelsea winger Willian’s contract expires in the summer, and it seems like the experienced Brazilian will be on the move.
Willian has been linked with a move to North London clubs Arsenal and Tottenham, and he said that he is open to moving to either of those clubs.
Arsenal could use a player like Willian, who has loads of experience of playing in the Premier League, contributing heavily with both goals and assists.
The Brazilian has been with the club since 2013, scoring 59 goals and picking up 59 assists in 329 games. Let’s take a look at 3 reasons why Arsenal should sign Willian:
3 reasons why Arsenal should make a move for Willian
#1 Adds experience to the squad
Barring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette, and Mesut Ozil, Arsenal’s attack consists of young players who have a lot of promise, but may not have the maturity to win games consistently for the Gunners.
Willian could add some much-needed experience to the young Gunners attack, and help the likes of Reiss Nelson, Nicolas Pepe, Eddie Nketiah, and compatriot Gabriel Martinelli.
The Brazilian has racked up over 300 appearances for Chelsea, and knows the English game well, while also being an experienced international, having won 70 caps for Brazil.
#2 Counter-attacking threat
The iconic Arsenal side of the past had several world-class players, who could switch from defence to attack in no time, to catch out opposition defences.
The counter-attacking ability seems to be lacking in the current Gunners side, as they have registered just two goals from fast breaks, compared to nine by league leaders Liverpool.
Willian’s quick dribbling, close control, and impressive passing could aid Arsenal’s counter-attacking ability. The likes of Nicolas Pepe and Aubameyang are quick, but sometimes lack the composure and ability to deliver the final ball.
#3 Available on a free transfer
Arsenal can’t compete with the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United, or even Willian’s current side Chelsea, when it comes to spending big in the transfer window.
Manager Mikel Arteta will have to make smart deals in the transfer market and try to sign quality players on loan, or those that are free agents.
Willian is just 31 years of age and possibly has a few more years to play at a top-level in the Premier League.
The money saved from paying a transfer fee for an attacker like Willian could be used to strengthen the defence, which is the Gunners’ Achilles heel.