Ex-Arsenal star Willian fails to turn up to pre-season training at Fulham as former Chelsea ace eyes transfer to rival
WILLIAN has taken a step closer to the exit door at Fulham after failing to show for pre-season training.
The Brazilian winger was absent as most of the squad reported back for duty in readiness for the new Premier League season.
Willian, 34, is out of contract and therefore technically not obliged to come in having rejected the offer of a new deal.
But sources at Fulham were hopeful that he would be persuaded to sign on for another 12 months – until this twist.
Willian is believed to be on the brink of a move to Nottingham Forest.
Fulham, in turn, are looking to Chelsea outcast Callum Hudson-Odoi to fill the void, according to reports.
A Craven Cottage insider said: “There was a feeling that he would eventually see sense and agree to stay on.
“But this turn of events makes the club feel a little bit less sure that he will be coming back.”
Willian was in great form last season during a record-breaking season for Fulham under boss Marco Silva.
He enjoyed a new lease of life as a key part of the team which won 15 Premier League matches following promotion from the Championship – more than in any other year.
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The Brazilian score five goals and registered six assists in 27 appearances for the Cottagers.
One of his goals came in Fulham’s derby win over Chelsea – their first win over their West London rivals in 16 years.
Meanwhile, Fulham chiefs will hold talks with striker Aleksandr Mitrovic following a £25million bid from Saudi side Al-Hilal.
Even though boss Silva is yet to agree a new deal, with 12 months left on his contract, he wants Mitrovic to stay in England.