According to the standard, Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has made it clear to the Blues to break the impasse over Willian’s contract stand-off as rival clubs circle to complete a deal.
The 31-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and has been free to talk to overseas clubs directly since January 1.
Although the Brazilian’s preference is to stay in west London, he is seeking a minimum two-year contract including a significant increase on his weekly wage of around £110,000-a-week.
The Blues have so far only offered a one-year extension and a host of clubs are monitoring the situation including Barcelona, Juventus and AC Milan. Tottenham are also believed to be keeping tabs on developments, having narrowly missed out on signing the midfielder in 2013 when he moved to Chelsea for £30million from Anzhi Makhachkala.
Youth has been at the heart of Lampard’s team this term but Willian has been an integral part of the side with only goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and Mason Mount making more Premier League appearances than Willian’s 21.
The Blues boss is keen to ensure Willian stays at the club to help aid their development and has recommended the club pull out all the stops to keep him, although negotiations are being handled by director Marina Granovskaia and technical and performance advisor Petr Cech among others.
It remains to be seen whether Chelsea opt to cash in and accept a fee during the final fortnight of the window but Lampard is thought to have advised against that option.