Willian is reportedly set to terminate his Arsenal contract for nothing, giving up his remaining wages to sign for Corinthians on reduced terms.

Benfica v Arsenal UEFA Europa League Willian of Arsenal during the UEFA Europa League match at Karaiskakis Stadium, Piraeus. Copyright: Yannis Halas
Benfica v Arsenal UEFA Europa League Willian of Arsenal during the UEFA Europa League match at Karaiskakis Stadium, Piraeus. Copyright: Yannis Halas

On Saturday afternoon, South American journalist Andre Hernan reported that Willian and his agents had agreed on a contract termination model with Arsenal, to be activated as soon as he has determined where he’ll play.

Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol then reported that this termination model essentially amounted to Willian tearing up his Arsenal contract. Solhekol claimed Willian would be saving Arsenal £20m by giving up his wages to terminate his deal.

The winger is expected to sign for Corinthians, where he’ll sign for around 30% of what he was on with Arsenal. Willian reportedly wants to make the termination gesture so he can leave English football with his head held high.

The Daily Mail confirm that Willian is ready to walk away from over £20m in wages to seal his transfer. He wants to avoid ugly discussions over a pay-off, and hopes to join Corinthians this week.

But take these updates with a pinch of salt. Whilst Football.London’s Chris Wheatley writes that sources close to the player claim he’s walking away from his deal, he adds that this hasn’t been verified with the club side. The transfer is expected to be confirmed on Monday.

If the news coming from Willian’s camp is correct, then at least there’s a positive conclusion to a disappointing year for the player at Arsenal. It would certainly be a boost for the club, and a good thing for Willian himself to be able to move on.