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I’m so glad I didn’t sign Tottenham contract – my heart was set on joining Chelsea

The Premier League star had admirers from both sides of London but ended up in Blue

By Tom Victor · Football London

Published: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 3:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Willian revealed he is grateful he did not join Tottenham after Chelsea made a late transfer offer.
The winger had completed a medical with Tottenham before Chelsea submitted a late bid for a permanent transfer.
Willian quickly agreed to join Chelsea after speaking with club director Marina Granovskaia.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Brazilian winger Willian has revealed he is grateful he did not complete a permanent transfer to Tottenham Hotspur in 2013 because his dream was always to join Chelsea. Speaking on The Obi One podcast with John Mikel Obi, Willian explained that he had already completed his medical with Tottenham before Chelsea submitted a late bid, prompting him to abruptly abandon the move.

After Chelsea's intervention, Willian quickly met with director Marina Granovskaia and signed a permanent deal from Anzhi Makhachkala. He spent seven years at Stamford Bridge, winning two Premier League titles, while Tottenham subsequently signed Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela instead.

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I’m so glad I didn’t sign Tottenham contract – my heart was set on joining Chelsea

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