FC Barcelona to make a last-ditch January approach for Willian

La Liga holders FC Barcelona are lining up a last gasp £20 million bid to sign long-term target Willian from Chelsea before the winter transfer window shuts on Friday. 

The Brazilian wants a new deal at Stamford Bridge but until he signs it, he is free to discuss a pre-contract with clubs outside England.  

However, Barcelona, who are going through a pretty poor season by their standards, want to test Chelsea's resolve in January itself with a cheeky bid for their star winger. 

Willian could leave the club for nothing in six months. From the financial point of view, it would be a good deal for the Blues if they can get £20 million for him now. 

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard, meanwhile, has urged the club to go all out and tie down the winger on a new deal. 

The Blues have already offered him a one-year extension, though the player is seeking a two-year deal and increase on his £110,000-a-week wages. 

As per the club's philosophy, they only offer one year deals to players beyond the age of 30 and the likes of John Terry and even Frank Lampard himself were no exceptions.

We have to wait and see if the Blues finally end that trend with the 31-year-old who has been in fine form for the club this season. 

The Italian duo of Juventus and AC Milan have both shown interest in the former Shakhtar Donetsk star. London rivals Tottenham are also in the running for the Brazilian's signature.

Jose Mourinho is known to be a big admirer of Willian. He was in charge of Chelsea when the Brazilian international was signed and he also later wanted him at Manchester United. 

Spurs saw their transfer for Willian hijacked at the last minute back in 2013 as he chose to move to Chelsea instead.

The Spurs snub became a popular one among Chelsea fans, who created a chant that ends in “he hates Tottenham”. 

His excellent form this season for an inconsistent Chelsea has seen him become a favourite with Lampard. Willian is also pushing to make Chelsea break their rule of only offering players over 30 a one-year extension.

Featured Image Credits- Sky Sports