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‘Ticks all the boxes’: Pundit in awe of Arsenal-linked ace, reportedly set for £150k-a-week

Giuseppe Labellarte

Sat 8 August 2020 16:45, UK

Arsenal legend and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson believes Willian would be an “unbelievable” signing for Mikel Arteta’s Gunners, in conversation with the .

Over the past few days, speculation linking Arsenal and the Chelsea attacker has intensified.

reported that the Gunners have made Willian a formal offer of a three-year contract and edged into pole position for his signature.

, meanwhile, claimed on Friday that, while there was no agreement yet – at the time of the report’s publication – “it looks increasingly likely” that the Brazilian will be heading to the Emirates Stadium.

According to several outlets including and the , Willian is to earn £150,000 per week at Arsenal, and writing in the , Merson believes it’s a shrewd investment for the Gunners despite the player’s age.

“Willian would be an unbelievable signing for Arsenal,” said Merson. “I think [he] is a special player who ticks all the boxes. 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. They need results now, so it’s no surprise to me Frank Lampard doesn’t want him to go.

“Arteta won’t be Arsenal manager forever. He needs to win now. Willian can help him do that.”

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Willian’s stellar CV speaks for itself, along with his impressive displays week-in, week-out in English and European football – he is an incredibly talented player, fast, agile, hard-working and technically gifted.

Merson is spot on – although Willian turns 32 this weekend, he is by no means on the decline, and his influence on and off the pitch is sure to make a huge difference to Arteta’s side.