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Premier League Player Turns Down €12 Million-A-Year Contract Offer

Premier League Player Turns Down €12 Million-A-Year Contract Offer

A lucrative offer from China was on the table but the player has said no...

Josh Lawless

Josh Lawless

Chelsea winger Willian received a lucrative offer from the Chinese Super League but elected to turn it down.

The Brazilian, who joined the Blues from Anzhi Makhachkala in a £30 million move in 2013, was the subject of a €20 million bid from Shanghai Shenhua.

The proposal, a three-year deal, also came with a pretty incredible pay packet. According to UOL Esporte, the basic salary was €12 million (£10.8 million) but also on the table was a rented flat, two cars with chauffeurs and funds set aside for plane tickets.

Image: PA
Image: PA

However, it's said that the former Shakhtar Donetsk man had no interest in the offer and wishes to continue in Europe - with plans to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge for the new two seasons.

Fair play to Willian for not being tempted by the mega riches of China, particularly with his club serving a two-window transfer ban.

Willian's former Chelsea teammate John Obi Mikel spent time in the Chinese Super League, lasting just two seasons with Tianjin Teda before moving back to England in January to join Middlesbrough in the Championship.

And earlier this year, the Nigerian warned players under the age of 30 against making the switch.

Image: PA
Image: PA

"My advice to anyone thinking about going, is have a long think about it," he explained to The Telegraph.

"You have to go at the right time. I certainly wouldn't say to anyone under the age of 30 to go there. They will regret it if they do.

"It's worth doing for a couple of years, if only to learn a different culture, to give yourself an experience that takes you out of your comfort zone, but do not be tempted by the money if you are young. Do your research, check what sort of club you are going to over there.

"You should wait until you are approaching the end of your career. The money makes the move tempting, we're only human, but do not be tempted by the size of the cheque if you are in the prime of your career. It's not worth it."

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Football News, Chelsea, Football, Willian, Premier League, Chinese Super League, Brazil, stamford bridge

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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