Report: Tottenham never actually tried to sign £100k-a-week star Mourinho called ‘amazing’

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Tottenham Hotspur never actually made contact to sign Willian before his move to Arsenal, ESPN have reported.

Tottenham were heavily linked with a move for Willian in the summer, but the Brazilian ended up moving to Arsenal.

The 32-year-old has signed a three-year deal at the Emirates Stadium, with Arsenal winning a hotly contested battle for his signature.

Manchester City and Barcelona were among the clubs who apparently approached the winger, but Tottenham did not join the race.

That seems a surprise, as Tottenham’s interest in him was reportedly strong at the start of the summer.

Jose Mourinho is known to be a big fan of Willian, after calling him ‘amazing in the Independent, having worked with him at Chelsea, but clearly the club decided to focus on signing other targets this summer.

Tottenham have already brought in Pierre Emile Hojbjerg and Joe Hart, with Mourinho seemingly wanting to add leaders to his side.

Willian is a more quiet character, but he could have also brought winning experience to Tottenham if he had signed.

Instead, though, the £100,000-a-week player (Daily Mail) will be lining up for Arsenal next season, and Tottenham may have to hope he doesn’t shine, otherwise questions will almost certainly be asked over why they didn’t challenge their North London rivals for his signature.