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Chelsea transfer news: Barcelona told to up Willian offer after +£50m bid is rejected
CHELSEA have told Barcelona to increase their offer for Willian after a £50m-plus bid was rejected by the London club.
Chelsea are open to selling Willian this summer, with the Brazilian likewise ready to move.
The Blues expected to appoint manager Maurizio Sarri this week and the Italian will want funds to sign his own transfer targets.
Chelsea are said to have already snubbed an offer in excess of £50m form Barcelona for their forward sensation.
And Sky Sports claim Barca are now negotiating a new deal.
According to the report, the two clubs are in talks and Chelsea are receptive to letting their man go.
Willian is currently starring at the World Cup with Brazil, where his side have reached the quarter-finals.
He provided an assist for ex-Barcelona star Neymar in their last outing - a 2-0 win over Mexico on Sunday.
Sky Sports claim that Willian has wanted to leave Stamford Bridge, assuming Antonio Conte would remain as head coach.
But even if the Italian is axed and replaced by Sarri, Willian could still face the exit door.
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Barca are seeking a new forward following Antoine Griezmann’s decision to reject their advances.
They signed Philippe Coutinho in January and landed Ousmane Dembele last summer.
But manager Ernesto Valverde is seeking more firepower to make sure his side can challenge on all fronts next term.