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June 26, 2024
Fulham winger Willian is set to leave Craven Cottage as a free agent, with talks underway between the Brazilian and potential suitors. Willian, eager for a new challenge ahead of the upcoming season, is exploring options for his next move, sources have told FOOTBALLNEWSTODAY.
Fulham have already faced a significant loss with central defender Tosin Adarabioyo departing for Chelsea after rejecting multiple contract offers. Manager Marco Silva is bracing for Willian’s potential exit before pre-season begins, a departure that could significantly reshape the team’s dynamics.
Silva has been in discussion with vice-chairman and sporting director Tony Khan as Fulham looks to strengthen their squad. However, with the £46 million departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic to Al-Hilal last summer and uncertainty surrounding Joao Palhinha’s future, Fulham could prepare for a significant rebuild this transfer window, leaving fans and pundits alike intrigued about the team’s future composition.
GMS sources confirm that Willian has decided to leave Fulham, opting not to sign a one-year contract extension as he explores opportunities with other clubs. The Brazilian winger, whose £90,000-per-week deal expires on June 30, is currently in talks with multiple teams, signaling the end of his time at Craven Cottage. Fulham will lose the 34-year-old without receiving a transfer fee, marking a significant loss for the team. Willian’s experience from previous stints at Chelsea and Arsenal had been valuable on and off the field.
With Willian’s departure, Alex Iwobi, who joined from Everton and scored six goals in 33 appearances, is expected to fill the left-wing role. Despite Iwobi’s promising performances, Fulham manager Marco Silva may still look for a new signing to replace the veteran winger’s influence, especially as the club prepares for the challenges of the upcoming Premier League season.
Willian | Alex Iwobi | |
Shot-creating actions | 5.36 | 3.47 |
Key passes | 2.52 | 1.65 |
Shots | 2.17 | 1.55 |
Shots on target | 0.78 | 0.58 |
Goals | 0.21 | 0.12 |
Assists | 0.20 | 0.16 |
According to GMS sources, the hierarchy and coaching staff respect the 35-year-old’s decision to look for a move before the new season begins. The Cottagers still have a good relationship with him despite his preparations to leave, a testament to the mutual respect between the player and the club.
Former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has called Willian “immense,” praising his skill, work ethic, and consistent performances during their time together at Stamford Bridge. As Willian weighs his options for the 2024–2025 season, several clubs have been informed of his availability as a free agent. With interest from European teams, Major League Soccer, and the Saudi Pro League, the 34-year-old winger carefully considers his next move, assessing whether to pursue a lucrative contract abroad or take on one final challenge in top-level European football.
As GMS sources reveal, Willian is attracting interest from the Saudi Pro League and Major League Soccer (MLS) as he prepares to leave Fulham. After successful stints at Chelsea, Arsenal, and Fulham, the Brazilian winger could be closing the chapter on his Premier League career and heading overseas.
While the Saudi Pro League offers a lucrative opportunity, Willian is off Al-Shabab’s radar despite nearly joining the club last year. Fulham blocked that move shortly after losing Aleksandar Mitrovic to the Saudi side, leaving the Cottagers hesitant to let another key player go.
Now, as his contract nears its end, Willian is exploring fresh opportunities abroad. The Saudi league and MLS are keen to secure his services.
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