Willian “Ripped Up” Arsenal Contract, To Seal Corinthians Transfer

Willian has reportedly ripped up his Arsenal contract and will now push through to seal a move to join Brazilian side Corinthians.

The 33-year-old Brazilian winger joined the Gunners on a three-year contract last summer after his deal expired at Chelsea. But Willian struggled for games with just one goal and five assists coming in 25 Premier League appearances last season.

Arsenal have been desperate to offload him in the summer transfer window as they look to rebuild their squad under Mikel Arteta.

William still has two years left to run on his current deal, which would take him to the age of 35, and is the second-highest earner at the club behind Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Arsenal have been negotiating with Corinthians for a few weeks, but the fact Willian has two years left on his £240,000-a-week contract has caused some difficulties.

According to Sky Sports, Willian has decided to waive the rest of his contract so he can move back to his native country on a free transfer.

By doing so he will reportedly save Arsenal around £20m in wages – a gesture which has ‘amazed’ the club’s directors.

The winger is also ready to accept a 70 percent pay cut to return to his former club.

Speaking earlier this week, Arteta confirmed the club was working on a deal to sell Willian.

“We are having some conversations with him and the agent, and we are evaluating the position that we are in at the moment,” Arteta said before Saturday’s 5-0 defeat by Premier League champions Manchester City.

Willian may actually end up heading elsewhere.

According to a report by Sunday Mirror, AC Milan wants to sign Willian. It is claimed that the Rossoneri wish to pay £7 million plus add-ons for the attacking midfielder. And they hope to wrap up a deal tomorrow.

The Mirror suggests that Arsenal want £9 million.