Football news - Corinthians announce Willian signing after Arsenal confirm player's release

ByAlexander Netherton

Updated 30/08/2021 at 22:49 GMT+1

Brazilian winger Willian has returned to his home country to sign with Corinthians, the club have annouced. Earlier on Monday, Premier League side Arsenal confirmed they had released the player from the remaining two years of his contract, reported to be worth £240,000 a week, to allow him to make the move.

Willian and Mikel Arteta during pre-season

Image credit: Getty Images

Corinthians announced the signing of Willian on a free transfer hours after Arsenal confirmed they had cancelled the player's contract.

Willian joined Arsenal on a three-year deal after leaving Chelsea last summer. However despite playing 38 times for Mikel Arteta’s side last season he has not made an appearance so far in the current campaign.

The 33-year-old Brazilian winger is said to have been on £240,000 but had asked to have his deal ripped up in order to facilitate a move to Corinthians.

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In a statement on the club’s official website, Arsenal confirmed:

“We have reached a mutual agreement with Willian to terminate his contract effective from today.

“The Brazil international joined us from Chelsea last August and made 38 appearances during the 2020/21 campaign.

“He had two more years to run on his contract but following positive and constructive recent discussions with him and his team, he will be leaving for a new opportunity with Corinthians in Brazil, where he began his career.

Everyone at Arsenal wishes Willian and his family well for the future.

“The contract termination is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.”

Corinthians then confirmed the transfer on their official Twitter account later on Monday night.