KEY POINTS

  • Mourinho needs to unload player before getting Willian
  • Lamela is likely player to be dealt away by HotSpur
  • Willian may pass off transfer moves until after next season

The future of Willian remains unclear although the Brazilian had already mentioned recently that he would entertain a temporary deal. Regardless, that has not stopped the Premier League rumor mill from buzzing. Tottenham looms as a plausible destination for the 33-year-old football player, something that would reunite him with Jose Mourinho. Unfortunately, the 57-year-old coach was told to unload one of his attackers first before bringing in Willian.

In an interview with the Daily Star, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy feels that Tottenham already has enough wide options at present. Hence, he feels that adding Willian may make no sense. Thus, the only way Mourinho can add the Brazilian is if he unloads one of his attacking players. No names were mentioned but it appears the likely player to leave is Erik Lamela. The HotSpur is asking $25 million for the 28-year-old player.

Since arriving in 2013, Lamela has made 27 appearances across all competitions for Tottenham. He was acquired for $32.37 million at the time. So far, the Argentine football player has not been linked to other clubs. That could change in the coming weeks if Mourinho will push for the acquisition of Willian.

The possible transfer of Willian may also depend on several factors. Originally, the Brazilian was seeking a three-year deal from Chelsea. The Blues were only willing to give him a two-year deal. All those are now irrelevant with new scenarios brought in by the COVID-19 pandemic. Willian is aware of the new situations, plus the fact that most teams are financially troubled. The 33-year-old mentioned in a previous post that he would be open to signing a temporary deal, likely a one-year pact until things return to normal.

For Tottenham, it will also be interesting if they will hand Willian a three-year deal without declining numbers on the contract. Though HotSpur can acquire him via free transfer after the current season, it was not mentioned how much would be offered to Willian if Lamela does get dealt.

There are matters on the table that teams and players need to factor in as far as making moves this summer. If not this coming transfer window, both Willian and Tottenham may end up holding off any moves until things normalize.

Back to square one: Tottenham's bright start under Jose Mourinho has dissipated
Back to square one: Tottenham's bright start under Jose Mourinho has dissipated AFP / Lindsey Parnaby