Arsenal are the current favourites in the race to sign Willian from Chelsea on a free transfer this summer, according to reports.

ESPN journalist Jorge Nicola reports that Arsenal are the favourites in the race to sign Willian, as things stand. There are no guarantees, however, particularly with all the uncertainty created by the current global situation.

“Arsenal are a little ahead today, but everything is still open,” said Nicola (via Metro). “Especially because the pandemic affected the entire financial reality of football in the world.”

As well as Arsenal, Barcelona and Corinthians are showing their interest. Although Corinthians would require the player to lower his wages drastically.

The Gunners are trying to use David Luiz to help convince Willian to join. The two are close friends, with a long history together for club and country. They’re even in business together as partners at a restaurant in London.

David Luiz is reportedly working to try and convince Willian to accept Arsenal’s two-year contract proposal, according to Nicola.

Earlier this month, Willian confirmed his contract talks with Chelsea are off. At the time, he said it was because he wanted a three-year deal, so it would be strange for him to move to Arsenal with a two-year contract.

Willian scored seven goals and assisted six in 37 appearances this season before the coronavirus lockdown.