Brazilian Star Willian Linked with Chelsea, but Andre Villas-Boas Cools the Rumors

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After stating earlier in the week that would relish a move to the Premier League from Ukranian club Shakhtar Donetsk, the rumor mill churned at full capacity, producing multiple rumors that the 23-year-old Brazilian midfielder Willian was on the verge of a move to Chelsea.

However, Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas has moved to quell any speculation that the creative midfielder is on his way to Stamford Bridge, saying that numerous "different issues" would prevent a transfer, although he does think the player is quite interesting.

Obviously there is some interest on the part of Chelsea, as they apparently had a £16.5 million bid turned down earlier in the month because Donetsk value Willian at more than £20 million.

With Chelsea barely clinging to the fourth Champions League spot (come on Arsenal!), Chelsea could certainly use the reinforcement. However, Willian is cup-tied in the Champions League, and thus he would not be able to help his new club to a great degree until next season.

The player has seen his transfer stock rise rapidly since the summer, when Arsenal were strongly linked to be in for his services, and has starred for his club ever since. I wouldn't be surprised if this story developed into something more substantial during the summer.

(Charlie Melman)

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