Willian turned down an offer from Nottingham Forest and re-signed for Fulham, who are considering whether to make an improved bid for Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi. Fulham had been pushing to reach an agreement with Willian since his previous contract expired at the end of June but other teams had tried to hijack the deal.
Forest were willing to give the Brazilian a two-year deal and there was also interest in the winger from clubs in Saudi Arabia. However, Fulham made a breakthrough in talks with Willian over the weekend. The 34-year-old, a key player for Marco Silva last season, is happy in London and has ended the speculation over his future by signing a one-year deal to stay, with the option of a further 12 months.
Willian proved an inspired signing after joining on a free transfer last summer. The former Chelsea and Arsenal player was keen to return to England after an unhappy spell at Corinthians and his experience was valuable for Fulham after their promotion to the Premier League. Willian, who ended last season with five goals and five assists in all competitions, played an important role in Silva’s side finishing 10th.
Fulham are keen to add more quality as they attempt to cement their position in the top flight and hope to bolster their options on the flanks. They have had an initial bid for Hudson-Odoi rejected but are likely to return with a higher offer. Hudson-Odoi, who also has interest from Crystal Palace, Milan and Forest, has a year on his deal and wants to leave Chelsea.
Willian told Fulham’s website: “I’m completely happy. Happy to sign one more year with Fulham. Happy to continue the work that I did last season with all my teammates and the whole club. I think it’s a club that can do even better this season, so I’m happy to continue this amazing adventure.”
Fulham owner Tony Khan said: “I’m thrilled that Willian will return to Fulham for at least one more season. He was a very important addition last summer and was a significant contributor during one of the most successful Premier League campaigns our club has ever had. We’re all very excited that he’ll return to Craven Cottage as we aim for another successful season in the Premier League together.”
Chelsea, meanwhile, have flown to the USA for their pre-season tour but Wesley Fofana was not part of the travelling party. The defender struggled with injuries last season and has remained in London to receive further assessment on a knee problem.
Marcus Bettinelli and Armando Broja have also stayed behind to continue their rehabilitation from injuries while Reece James did not board the plane after reporting that he felt unwell. Chelsea expect James to join up with the squad soon.
