Keown Names The Two Teams Arsenal Are Trailing Behind In Race For Brazil Star

Keown Names The Two Teams Arsenal Are Trailing Behind In Race For Brazil Star

Arsenal legend Martin Keown says Chelsea winger Willian will be aiming to join either Barcelona or Real Madrid this summer ahead of a switch to Arsenal.

The Brazilian international has been heavily linked with a free transfer to the Emirates, with Liverpool and Spurs also said to be interested, but Keown doesn’t think he’ll be joining the Gunners.


“I don’t see him going to Arsenal. I think he’s aiming for Barcelona or Real Madrid. He’s an incredible talent. Chelsea will be weaker if he goes but Frank Lampard knows what he’s doing. I’m sure he wants to keep him.”

Willian’s current deal at Chelsea runs out in June and the 31-year-old has already hinted that he would be open to staying in the UK so a transfer across London cannot be ruled out.

However, a major obstacle will be the player’s demands. The reason he looks set to leave Stamford Bridge is the fact that he is a demanding a three-year contract.

With Willian turning 32 in August, it doesn’t appear to be a worthwhile investment, unless Arsenal can convince him to sign a two-year deal with an option for a further year if he plays enough matches.