Skip to content

Report: Mourinho targeting Willian as one of 4 summer signings

Action Images via Reuters / Carl Recine Livepic

Jose Mourinho reportedly wants a reunion with Willian.

The Manchester United manager has identified the Brazilian as one of at least four potential signings for the summer ahead, sources told ESPN FC's Mark Ogden.

Mourinho, who recruited the player during his second stint at Chelsea in 2013, tried to bring his former pupil to Old Trafford last summer. Willian confirmed in February there was interest, but a move was always unlikely on the heels of signing a new four-year contract with the Blues.

The 28-year-old has fallen somewhat out of favour at Stamford Bridge, having made just 13 Premier League starts this season. A spectacular free-kick in last weekend's FA Cup semi-final notwithstanding, Willian has a larger share of appearances (16) as a substitute. He returned to the bench for Tuesday's match against Southampton, despite the absence of favoured winger Pedro in Antonio Conte's lineup.

Conte may refuse to sell Willian to a direct rival like United, according to Ogden, and Chelsea apparently believes it has the upper hand in any potential negotiation process.

Considering the severity of Zlatan Ibrahimovic's injury and the likelihood of Wayne Rooney's departure, Mourinho is clearly on the lookout for attacking reinforcements.

Willian was one of Mourinho's most trusted men in the run-up to Chelsea's 2014-15 title triumph, showing tremendous pace and a desire to track back as the club won the Premier League and League Cup.

He arrived in London in a £32-million deal after a brief sojourn with Anzhi Makhachkala.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox