Arsenal are all set to sign Willian on a three-year deal this summer.
As per reports, the Brazilian midfielder will earn around £220,000 a week and the transfer should be finalised by Sunday.
This comes at a time when Arsenal have announced 55 job cuts. Earlier this year, some of their players agreed to take a paycut so that the other club staff can keep their jobs.
Not only did Arsenal betray the trust of their players, their lavish spending on Willian could infuriate the fans as well.
It will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds in the coming weeks.
Arsenal needed to sign a quality attacking midfielder like Willian and there is no doubt that he would be a superb signing for them.
However, the job cuts were harsh and simply unnecessary from the club.
Willian’s big money deal will comprise of other bonuses and loyalty payments as well. Furthermore, the Brazilian will pocket a huge sign on fee as a free agent.
Although the transfer will be labeled as a free signing, it is anything but free. Arsenal’s overall outlay on Willian could set them back around £35m.
The Brazilian will be expected to perform instantly and it remains to be seen whether Willian manages to adapt to his new club quickly.
If he does, he will improve Arteta’s attack considerably. Despite his age, he is fit enough to make a significant contribution next season.
Willian will add goals and assists to the Arsenal side. His set piece prowess will add a new dimension to Arsenal’s play as well.
