Barcelona and Manchester United battle for Chelsea star

Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe

Chelsea have rejected a £50million bid from La Liga champions Barcelona for Brazilian midfielder Willian.

The Nou Camp club are looking to bolster their team for the upcoming season after winning the Spanish League and cup double last season but failed to go all the way in the UEFA champions league.

Barcelona hierarchy feel that they lacked a strong squad depth and attacking flair despite their double success.

And they have turned to Willian hoping he could join Brazillian teammate Coutinho at the La Liga giants, the former Shakhtar Donetsk player was impressive in Chelsea's Champions League knockout round match with Barca, scoring in the 1-1 home draw before the Stamford Bridge side were knocked out 4-1 on aggregate.  .

Following the departure of Iniesta, the 29-year old attacking midfielder is seen as a player with a great flair that can bring experience and spark to their team as they look to challenge for the European title next season.

Daily Mail reports suggest that Willian's representatives have been in Barcelona and the lure of the Spanish giants will be tempting but Chelsea have so far shown no willingness to sell.

The British media outlet are also reporting that Willian's long-term admirers Manchester United have joined the battle to sign the Brazillian this summer transfer window.

Jose Mourinho is willing to offer more for one of his favorites players during his time at Chelsea, Willian and Jose seem to have a cordial relationship from the latter's time at the London club.

United tried to sign Willian last January but Chelsea turned down the offer despite using him as a fringe player for most of the season.

Willian's Chelsea contract runs till 2020, he is a popular player at Stamford Bridge, as a result of this, Chelsea are not willing to sell him but a great offer might lure them considering he will turn 30 in August.