Sky
Sports News reported last week that Barcelona had tabled a second offer
believed to be worth up to £53m for the Brazil international, with talks
still ongoing between the two clubs and representatives of the player.
Sky sources understand the La Liga champions first began efforts to lure
Willian to the Nou Camp over three months ago.
Premier League rivals Manchester United were interested in a deal for the
winger back in May, with the player himself wanting to leave the club during
the tenure of former head coach Antonio Conte, who has since been replaced
by Maurizo Sarri.
Willian, who was voted the Chelsea players' player of the season last term,
was left out of the starting line-up for the 1-0 FA Cup final win over
United.
He scored Chelsea's only goal in their Champions League last-16 tie against
Barcelona last season.
Willian has scored 44 goals in 236 appearances for Chelsea since joining the
club from Russian side Anzhi in 2013.
top