Willian’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, has revealed that two top clubs expressed interest in signing the Fulham forward during the current transfer window, despite many saying he was ‘done’ when he left Arsenal.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - JANUARY 15: Willian of Fulham battles for possession with Dan Burn of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Fulham FC at St. James Park on January 15, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 15: Willian of Fulham battles for possession with Dan Burn of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Fulham FC at St. James Park on January 15, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Despite being in demand, Kia Joorabchian confirmed that Willian would remain with Fulham for the remainder of the season.

The 34-year-old has been a standout player for Fulham this season, with three goals and two assists in 14 Premier League appearances before this weekend’s FA Cup matches.

He scored one (with seven assists) in 37 games for Arsenal before a spell with Corinthians that saw him receive death threats.

Joorabchian praised Willian for his performances this season and stated, “I think 99% of people would have said that he [Willian] was finished when he left Arsenal: ‘He’s finished – he’s done. His career is over.’

Arsenal v West Bromwich Albion - Premier League - Emirates Stadium Arsenal s Willian celebrates scoring their side s third goal of the game during the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium, London. Picture date: Sunday May 9, 2021. Copyright: Richard Heathcote
Arsenal v West Bromwich Albion – Premier League – Emirates Stadium Arsenal s Willian celebrates scoring their side s third goal of the game during the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium, London. Picture date: Sunday May 9, 2021. Copyright: Richard Heathcote

“Yesterday, we got a call from two top clubs. One said: ‘This guy never ages.’ The other said: ‘He’s like peter pan. How much would it cost to pull him out?’ We said: ‘It’s not happening – he is staying at Fulham.’”

After offering him a one-year deal, Fulham are reportedly open to extending Willian’s contract, which is set to expire at the end of the season.

Willian joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013 and spent seven years at the club, winning two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup and one UEFA Europa League.

He made over 300 appearances for Chelsea and was known for his skilful dribbling, crossing, and set-piece ability.

In 2020, Willian decided not to renew his contract with Chelsea and joined Arsenal on a free transfer with the Gunners offering him a three-year deal as opposed to the Blues’ two-year deal.

After spending one disastrous year at Arsenal, Willian joined Corinthians on a free transfer in 2021.