By MATT BARLOW
Having played a key role in Chelsea’s downfall, Willian claimed his time in Ukraine was nearing its end as he pleaded for a transfer to one of Europe’s top leagues.
The Brazilian left the Donbass Arena after Shakhtar Donetsk beat the European champions clutching a Chelsea shirt with his name and a question mark on the back, handed to him by a Blues fan.
His contract expires in 2014 and Chelsea and Tottenham have a long-standing interest in the 24-year-old winger, who has two caps for his country.
Willian said: ‘I would like to move from Shakhtar, my work here is complete. I would like to play in a big team in a big tournament, like the Premier League or Serie A. I like Chelsea, AC Milan and Inter.
‘I need to show up in a big league to be called up for the national team. My dream, my main goal is to play the World Cup in Brazil and that is only going to happen if I move.
‘If I were playing in a big league the same way I’ve played here, I would have more chances.
‘I knew Chelsea wanted me in the past, but the club didn’t want leave me, I think, about the price.
‘I respect the position of the club. I have to keep playing at a high level to receive new bids. We have to try to move on in the Champions League.
‘We are strong but Shakhtar is not just me, there are a lot of strong players. We played the perfect game against Chelsea. This season, we have more knowledge about our power.’
Shakhtar, having paid Corinthians £12million for Willian in 2007, are understood to want more than £30m but price will fall as he nears the end of his contract and his electric display in Wednesday’s win will ensure plenty of interest remains.
