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Chelse allowing this 31-year-old first-team ace to depart on a free transfer would be a smart move and here’s why

Why Chelsea should allow Willian to join Juventus on a free transfer

According to a report from the Sun, Juventus are weighing up a move for Brazil international Willian as he enters the final year of his contract at Chelsea.​

Willian, 31, has spent six seasons at Stamford Bridge following his move from Anzhi Makhachkala in 2013, going on to make 295 appearances across all competitions. His contract is up next summer and as things stand, there haven’t been talks of the winger extending his stay at Chelsea.

That means Juventus could begin negotiations with the player in January ahead of a move six months later.

The Italian champions have built up a reputation over the last few years for snapping up players on pre-contract agreements, with the likes of Aaron Ramsey, Adrien Rabiot, Emre Can and Sami Khedira having moved to Turin on free transfers in recent years.

Willian has been a vital member for Chelsea ever since arriving in 2013, scoring 52 goals. 

During that time, he’s played a part in winning two Premier League titles as well as an FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League. However, the Brazilian has been on the wane in the last couple of seasons, managing just nine Premier League goals in two seasons combined.

The 31-year-old has made three league appearances this season but is yet to start a game under new manager Frank Lampard. Lampard, who replaced Maurizio Sarri at the helm of the club in the summer, wants to play quick, fast and high-intense football with young players. The club’s transfer ban has left his squad short of the quality needed to compete at the top of the Premier League.

But the 41-year-old has used the club’s transfer embargo in a very positive manner, encouraging academy kids like Tammy Abraham, Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori to enjoy their football at the Bridge and not go elsewhere in search of regular football.

Even though results haven’t gone Chelsea’s way and there’s still a lot to improve for them to make it to the top four this season, the fans are happy to see the academy graduates shine and build their reputation in west London.

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Lampard needs time to get the Blues playing his way but Willian just doesn’t seem fit to be a part of his plans going forward.

Willian may be one of the team’s most senior pros but he is 31 and already appearing to be past his best. In the cameo appearances he has made this season, the Brazilian international has looked off the pace and largely ineffective with the ball.

Verdict

Willian’s contract expires next summer and the right thing for Chelsea will be to allow him to join Juventus on a free transfer. This decision could be the best for all parties involved.