Sports
Manchester United plot huge £80m Chelsea transfer swap of Willian-plus-cash for Anthony Martial
Jose Mourinho is targeting a sensational £80million swap deal, involving Willian and Anthony Martial.
The Manchester United boss is a big admirer of Willian from his time as Chelsea boss, while the Blues are keen on Martial, United’s French striker.
However, Old Trafford chiefs would only consider selling him to the Londoners if Willian is part of the deal.
Along with Nemanja Matic, Willian was one of two Chelsea players Mourinho wanted to sign when he joined United in summer 2016, six months after leaving Stamford Bridge.
He is a fan of the 29-year-old Brazilian’s speed, team ethic and strong mentality, but faces a battle to persuade his former employers to let him go.
United’s top brass are also in no hurry to allow Martial to leave, but Mourinho has become increasingly frustrated that the 22-year-old – signed from Monaco three years ago when predecessor Louis van Gaal was in charge – is not developing.
Martial – and fellow frontman Marcus Rashford – failed to impress when standing in for the injured Romelu Lukaku in Friday’s shock 1-0 defeat away to relegation candidates Brighton, increasing Mourinho’s annoyance.
The France international – who is also attracting interested from Juventus – cost £36million when he signed him from Monaco.
Martial did not make the most of just his fourth league start since January on Friday (Image: AFP/Getty)
United had to stump up another £8m when the youngster went past 25 goals and will have to pay a further £8m if Martial – currently on 18 caps – reaches 25 appearances for his country.
The player signed a four-year deal that is up next summer, but includes a fifth year option on the club’s side.
Reports in France suggest Martial has so far refused United’s offer of a new contract.
He fears his lack of regular starts under Mourinho are damaging his international future, and is worried he could miss out on a World Cup squad place in Russia this summer.
With Antonio Conte set to be replaced at Stamford Bridge for next season, any deal would be put on hold until Chelsea have sorted his successor.
But if owner Roman Abramovich believes a Martial-Willian swap is a good deal, he’ll rubber-stamp it regardless of who the Blues’ manager is.
United would want £40m cash from Chelsea as Mourinho values Martial at £80m in current market conditions, with Willian worth £40m.