Paul Merson: 'Willian could play for Manchester City'

Former Arsenal forward Paul Merson has said that "world-class" attacker Willian "could play for Manchester City tomorrow".

The Brazil international remains a key player for Chelsea but will see his current deal at Stamford Bridge expire at the end of June, meaning that, as it stands, he will be available on a free this summer.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are both believed to be interested in signing the 31-year-old ahead of the 2020-21 campaign, but Merson has suggested that Man City should also be in the hunt.

"Willian is world class, and Chelsea haven't got a lot of world-class players. Willian has been outstanding, he could play for Manchester City tomorrow," Merson told Sky Sports News.

"There will be teams queuing around the block to sign him. He's a special player and for me, Chelsea have dropped one by letting it get to this situation."

Willian has scored seven times and registered six assists in 37 appearances for Frank Lampard's side during the 2019-20 campaign, including five goals in the Premier League.