Ex-Arsenal center-back Paul Merson has tipped impending Chelsea FC departure Willian to thrive at the Gunners following his move to the North London based outfit this summer. The 31-year old attacker has been rumored to have agreed upon a three-year deal with Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of next season.
The official confirmation of Willian signing for Arsenal should be expected as early as next week. The Blues’ contract extension talks with the player had failed earlier, with the Brazilian international holding out for a deal that would extend his stay at Stamford Bridge further by three years.
The Gunners entered a widely contested race to sign the 31-year old Willian and have reportedly secured his signature following the end of the current season. And former Arsenal man Merson believes that the Brazilian will prove to be a fantastic piece of transfer business by Mikel Arteta at the Emirates Stadium.
‘Willian would be an unbelievable signing for Arsenal. I think Willian is a special player who ticks all the boxes.
Moreover, Merson expressed his shock at Chelsea FC boss Frank Lampard not hesitating in letting his star attacker leave the club this summer. According to ex-England playmaker, Willian could have been a star presence in Lampard’s side for the coming years, despite the Brazilian crossing the age mark of 30.
‘ I can’t believe Chelsea are letting him go to be honest.
‘I know he’s 31 and wanted a three-year contract but football is all about now, and right now he’s a great player. No manager is thinking about what might happen in three or four years’ time.
Recent speculation had suggested that Lampard was not too keen on letting Willian leave the Blues on a free transfer. However, the player had stuck to his demands of being offered a three-year deal by Chelsea FC, something that the club did not relent to, leaving Arsenal in pole position to sign the winger.
