Chelsea’s newest Brazilian signing Willian has revealed that even though Tottenham Hotspur had an agreement with the player, it was the Stamford Bridge club that first came calling months prior to the Spurs offer, as the player represents his country in the international week.

The Blues have got off to a decent start to their new campaign, and will be boosted by late arrivals in the recently concluded summer transfer window. Jose Mourinho’s first game in charge saw them face Hull City at Stamford Bridge, but the performance of the team was not convincing enough for them to be touted as title challengers. They also faced a nervy encounter against Aston Villa, which was also won, but with a certain amount of difficulty. John Terry and Gary Cahill have taken charge of the central defensive unit, but it was the midfield that lacked strength. Despite the presence of Frank Lampard and Ramires, Chelsea needed an out-and-out attacking midfielder, and that need had been fulfilled by the arrival of Willian from Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala.

The Brazilian was strongly linked with a move to Chelsea’s city rivals Tottenham Hotspur, and reportedly agreed terms with the club. Reports also suggested that the player had completed and passed a mandatory medical examination at White Hart Lane, before Chelsea hijacked the deal. The presence of Mourinho at Chelsea will always remain a factor that can switch deals, given his vast experience, and success at the club.

With the arrival of Marco van Ginkel from Vitesse, Chelsea have a talented pair of midfielders who can channel the attacking play with the help of wing wizards like Juan Mata and Eden Hazard. The dynamic duo have been wreaking havoc in the Barclays Premier League, providing options as left and right footed players. Their ability to find spaces and break defences have been useful for Chelsea, especially in games against difficult opposition.

According to ESPN, Willian has clarified that even though Spurs had a deal in place with Anzhi, it was Chelsea who were first to let the player know about their firm interest.

Willian said, “Chelsea made an offer two months ago but I was not allowed to leave [Anzhi Makhachkala],”

“I kept following the club and I used to go to London to follow Chelsea whenever I had free time and now my dream has come true.”

“I will work with Mourinho who is the best manager and I will grow a lot with him.”

“Other clubs were interested, but my intention and dream of playing for Chelsea made the difference. The opportunity to play with Mourinho, the best manager in the world, also made a lot of difference. I always dreamed of wearing Chelsea’s jersey.”