Willian to Manchester United – Do the Red Devils really need him?
Manchester United are reportedly interested in a summer swoop for Chelsea attacker Willian. The 29-year-old has played an important role for the Blues this season and has been one of their most consistent and reliable players up front.
However, Antonio Conte has not handed him regular starts throughout the season and that has led to speculation that Willian might be on the lookout for an escape route once the summer window rolls about.
And the Red Devils appear to be keen on taking full advantage of the situation to bring Willian to Old Trafford before the next season commences.
At face value, having a player like the Brazilian in the ranks could prove to be beneficial for Jose Mourinho. A lethal attacker like the Chelsea star can add so much value and boost squad depth for United but considering the plethora of attacking options at Mourinho’s disposal right now, it does bring up the question of whether they really need him.
Willian primarily plays either as an attacking midfielder or he occupies the role of the right-winger. Mourinho has alternated between Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata for both of these roles.
In fact, in the club’s recent win over Chelsea, the Portuguese tactician utilized January arrival Alexis Sanchez in that role, so as to provide Anthony Martial with the comfort of starting in his preferred left-wing position. And, to be fair, Sanchez did a decent job there.
Hence, with so many quality attacking options like Sanchez, Lingard, Mata, Paul Pogba, Martial and Marcus Rashford at hand, it honestly does not make sense for United to spend more money on purchasing Willian.
The Brazilian is undoubtedly an outstanding player and can add attacking intent to several clubs – United included. However, making a move for him at this point seems wasteful, to say the at least.
However, with the club yet to renew Martial’s contract, the player might be on the verge of exiting Old Trafford. His current deal will run out next summer and with a serious competition brewing for regular starting spots, Martial might be tempted to move out, despite being one of United’s most influential players.
Ideally, United should focus on renewing Martial’s contract to ensure he continues with the club but it is unsure if they have other plans in mind. Regardless, if that happens, only then will it make sense for the Red Devils to actively pursue a deal for Willian.