Paul Merson believes Chelsea midfielder Willian will have clubs queueing up for him and ‘could play for Manchester City’ when he leaves Stamford Bridge.
Willian has been at Chelsea since 2013 with his current deal set to expire in June. The Brazil international has indicated he had been keen to remain in west London but now expects to leave after being told it is ‘impossible’ to offer him the three-year extension he seeks.
Chelsea’s transfer policy dictates that players over 30 are only offered one-year extensions.
Merson doubts any club will be willing to offer a player who turns 32 in August a three-year deal but says the Blues have made a mistake in failing to tie down a player who could easily start for one of their Premier League rivals.
Merson told Sky Sports: “Willian is world class, and Chelsea haven't got a lot of world-class players. Willian has been outstanding, he could play for Manchester City tomorrow.
"There will be teams queueing around the block to sign him. He's a special player and for me, Chelsea have dropped one by letting it get to this situation.”
Willian has also indicated his preference is to remain in the Premier League and has been linked with London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham in recent weeks.
