The current global situation may have put everything on hold, however it has only brought complications with it as nobody seems to be any wiser about what will happen when things can finally start to get back to normality, even if keeping up on the latest football news is a little more difficult than it ought to be at times.
Football is starting to make its way back to our screens at a gradual rate as countries across the world outline their own easing of restrictions at staggered moments, with some being a lot earlier than others with their approaches, giving players who have a point to prove the opportunity to do so.
However, the problem that restarting the season brings is the fact that games will still need to be played way beyond the expiration of some player’s contracts, therefore bringing up a decision that needs to be made and one that is widely accepted by everyone involved.
It has been reported in the past that the Premier League would allow for clubs to cover the period with short-term deals, although there has been no bite from teams or players just yet.
With that in mind, here are just some of the game’s top stars that are facing those problems over the next few weeks…
1/ Willian
Perhaps one of the most documented situations regarding contracts heading into these unprecedented times involves Willian and Chelsea. The Brazilian is said to be keen on extending his stay at Stamford Bridge, however the Blues are unwilling to compromise and give their South American star the three-year deal he is after, but instead they are prepared to give him one worth two years. With a continued alleged stalemate between player and the club’s hierarchy, it remains to be seen as to whether Frank Lampard will have the experienced winger available to him as Chelsea look to secure Champions League football in his first year at the helm of the club.
2/ Jan Vertonghen
Tottenham Hotspur defender Jan Vertonghen’s deal is set to expire at the end of June, however with the restart of the Premier League going to go way beyond that date, Jose Mourinho’s men could be in a tough situation. The Belgian has been key in Spurs’ efforts over the last eight years and has been a regular for the Portuguese manager since he arrived in north London in 2019, but if he decides to walk, it could be a huge blow to the Lilywhites chances of securing Champions League football next season.
3/ David Silva
David Silva’s situation is a little more complex than the aforementioned Willian and Vertonghen (and many others in that same boat). The Spaniard has already told Manchester City that this would be his last season at the club, although whether he will continue for as long as possible and see the current campaign out remains to be seen. With the Premier League happy to allow for players to extend their contracts for an extra period of time, it would not be a surprise to see him sign a short extension, although it is not something we would be willing to hold our breath on.
