Chelsea reject opening Barcelona bid for Willian

FA Cup holders Chelsea are reported to have knocked back an opening bid from Barcelona for Willian.

The 29-year-old has been an influential player in the Blues' ranks over the past five years and last season was his best yet with 13 goals scored across all competitions.

Despite this, there is said to be uncertainty regarding his future with his contract expiring in two years' time whilst his antics after the FA Cup final triumph seem to have not gone well with the hierarchy.

Willian has shared a shrewd relationship with manager Antonio Conte who has been reluctant to assure him of a regular starting spot and shortly the Cup final, he happened to block the Italian in a celebration picture posted on Instagram.

As such, there have been signs that he could part ways with the west London giants but according to The Mail, the Blues have turned down an opening bid worth £50m from Barcelona.

The La Liga champions are expected to play Philippe Coutinho in a deeper position with Andres Iniesta having parted ways and they are said to want his compatriot Willian to slot into the left-wing role.