Brazil legend Rivaldo has backed compatriot Willian to join Tottenham Hotspur when his Chelsea contract expires at the end of this season.
Willian looks increasingly likely to end his seven-year stay at Stamford Bridge this summer, with the club and player still apart in their negotiations over the length of any new deal.
The 31-year-old is thought to favour staying in London with Arsenal and Spurs among the clubs rumoured to be interested, and Rivaldo believes that a reunion with former boss Jose Mourinho could be good for the winger.
"Willian is attracting some headlines in England as his contract with Chelsea is expiring this summer and there are strong rumours that he may move to a London rival soon. Yes, Willian is already playing at a big club, but he has been there for a long time and perhaps he needs a new challenge to recapture his will and motivation at this point in his career in the Premier League," Rivaldo told Betfair.
"A move to Tottenham could be a good option, especially because Willian would reunite with his former coach Jose Mourinho there, and the pair seem to have a good relationship. Furthermore, we all know that Mourinho has a special affection for Brazilian players and I am sure he would give lots of opportunities to Willian at Spurs.
"Willian has been a regular player for the Brazilian national team, with almost 70 caps, so he will be part of Tite's thinking for next year's Copa America. A big move might be just what the player needs in the season leading up to the Copa. Making headlines could be important for Willian and keep him in Tite's thoughts.
"The most important thing, though, is being successful and playing at a high level no matter which club he joins. As a Chelsea player, Willian represents professionalism and consistency. At 31, he still has lots of football to play and I'm confident that if he moves to the Spurs he will become an important player for them."
Willian has made 37 appearances for Chelsea in total this season, scoring seven goals and creating six more.
Barney Corkhill
