Chelsea's Willian confirms Manchester United talks

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Bengaluru, Augsut 11: Chelsea midfielder Willian has revealed that he held talks with Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho about a potential deal to move to Old Trafford, however, any possibility of that move was blocked by the defending league leaders.

Mourinho had earlier expressed his interest for the Chelsea winger, with the duo building a solid bond since his move from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013 under Mourinho.

The Brazilian winger was also named Chelsea's Player of the Year in Mourinho's last season at Stamford Bridge in which the Blues struggled to stay afloat.

However, since Antonio Conte's arrival at the helm, the 29-year-old mostly saw himself on the bench.

There were even rumours that he can move to Manchester for a regular game-time under his former boss with advanced talks being held.

Willian is expected to play more this season with the expansion of Champions League football to Chelsea's match list.

However, the 29-year-old in a recent interview with Goal.com has revealed that Mourinho was enthusiastic about attracting him to Old Trafford, but the Blues closed down on any possible movement.

"There were a few conversations with my agent. I worked with Mourinho and I became his friend as well," said Willian.

"He likes me a lot and I like him a lot as a coach and as a person. He has put his trust in me and in my work, and I was very grateful to him.

"Manchester came to me, they talked with my agent, but nothing happened, because Chelsea would not negotiate me in any way and I'm very happy at Chelsea."

Conte started Willian in the Community Shield tie against Arsenal and could start him in the XI again when Conte's men begin their Premier League title defense against Burnley at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.