Lampard eager for Willian deal

Frank Lampard is hopeful the Chelsea money men can sort out a contract extension for midfielder Willian before the new year. Willian, capped 69 times for Brazil, will be out of contract at the end of the season, meaning he can start negotiating with potential new employers in January.
The 31-year-old has been at Stamford Bridge since 2013, making 307 appearances in all competitions and scoring 55 goals.
He was in the shadow of superstar Eden Hazard for a while but the Belgium international’s departure has paved the way for the South American to reassert his dominance in midfield.
He has done just that this term, taking up the mantle of senior player and helping to guide the Blues’ youngsters through, with another stellar display as Chelsea beat Crystal Palace 2-0 on Saturday.
Despite the west London club’s transfer embargo, they have performed well with what they have to sit third in the top-flight standings and are well in contention for a Champions League berth next season.
It remains to be seen if Willian is part of the club’s future from this campaign onwards but Lampard has made his feelings clear on the matter. “I can’t get involved in the money, that’s up to the club, but I think everyone sees I’m relying on him and I love him at this football club,” he told the club’s website. “The off-the-ball work he’s done is an absolutely outstanding example for Callum Hudson-Odoi, Christian Pulisic and other young wingers who think the only part of the game is going past people and crossing or shooting.”
Punters looking to use a free bet might fancy Willian to inspire Chelsea to a top-four finish and they are next in action away to Manchester City after the international break on November 23.