Chelsea Transfer News: Latest Rumours on Anthony Martial, Willian Swap Deal

Manchester United would reportedly only consider letting Anthony Martial join Chelsea if Blues forward Willian was included in any deal.

According to Steve Bates of the Sunday People (h/t the Sunday Mirror), United manager Jose Mourinho is a big fan of Willian, having worked with the player during his second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are said to be admirers of Martial too, and Bates noted that the Red Devils would be interested in a possible swap.

"Old Trafford chiefs would only consider selling [Martial] to the Londoners if Willian is part of the deal," Bates said. "...[Mourinho] 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."

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According to Bates, Mourinho has been trying to bring Willian to United since he was appointed as manager at Old Trafford in the summer of 2016. The Portuguese brought in former Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic ahead of this term.

While Chelsea haven't been at full flight this season, the Brazil international has been one of their most consistent performers. Jack Pitt-Brooke of The Independent was full of praise for him earlier this season:

At his best, Willian is an incredible force in the final third. The Chelsea man has a little bit of everything to his game, as he's strong on the ball, blisteringly quick and technically outstanding.

What sets him apart from a lot of forwards is his application, something you sense appeals to Mourinho. Willian is adept at playing across the front line and always willing to put the hard yards in for his team.

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United may be on the lookout for a new forward too, as rumours continue to gather pace that Martial will leave the club. According to Dominic Fifield of the Guardian, Chelsea are interested in the France international.

While he hasn't been in the team much recently, writer Sam Pilger put Martial's figures into context:

Despite the clear talent he possesses, Martial has found it tough to get in the United side ahead Alexis Sanchez and Marcus Rashford in the second half of the campaign. Unsurprisingly, when he has been handed an appearance, he's been rusty.

Writer Rob Blanchette doesn't believe the 22-year-old fits the manager's blueprint at Old Trafford:

While swap deals are rare in modern football, United were involved in one in January, when Henrikh Mkhitaryan moved to Arsenal in exchange for Sanchez.

Throughout his career, Mourinho has tended to make short-term signings. Given his age and his experience in the Premier League, Willian could have a brilliant initial impact at United, although he's unlikely to be around for too long.

Martial, with time, patience and astute coaching, could become a world-class operator. But Mourinho is not renowned for developing such unpolished diamonds.