Transfer Centre

Barcelona identify Chelsea midfielder Willian as backup target?

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 30 November 2017

Barca identify Willian as backup target?

Barcelona will reportedly move for Chelsea midfielder Willian if they fail to complete a deal for Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho.

Chelsea midfielder Willian has reportedly emerged as a possible transfer target for Barcelona during the January window.

During the closing weeks of the summer, Barca attempted to push through a deal for Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho, only for the Merseyside giants to maintain their stance that the Brazilian was not for sale.

The Catalan giants are likely to return with an improved offer in January but according to Goal.com, Ernesto Valverde has identified Coutinho's compatriot as his backup option.

Willian netted important goals against Qarabag and Liverpool last week, but the 29-year-old has been in and out of Antonio Conte's starting lineup since the beginning of the season.

In total, Willian has made nine starts and 10 substitute appearances in all competitions this season, with his three goals all coming in the past 10 days.

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho also allegedly holds an interest in a player whom he coached during his time at Stamford Bridge, but Willian still has over two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.