Chelsea transfer news: Willian urges Antonio Conte to sign Alexandre Pato on permanent basis

Chelsea star Willian has urged incoming manager Antonio Conte to secure the services of Alexandre Pato on a permanent basis, despite his compatriot struggling to make a significant loan impact since his January arrival at the club. Willian said the acquisition of the Corinthians player would be a good deal for all involved if he signs for Chelsea.

The 26-year-old striker agreed a six-month loan deal with the Premier League giants during the January mercato in order to address the shortage of options in Guus Hiddink's attacking ranks, with Diego Costa, Loic Remy and Radamel Falcao all being hit by various fitness issues.

Evening Standard reported at the time the Blues had a clause to sign him permamently for a fee of £12m ($17.3m). However, chances of such a deal going through seemed to be remote after the Brazilian made just two appearances for Chelsea since signing, and not debuting until 64 days after arriving at the club.

But Willian has claimed Pato wants to stay at Chelsea to prove his worth in the Premier League, and has urged Conte to fulfil his wishes by cementing a permanent deal.

"He has the desire to stay and I hope this can be resolved as quickly as possible. Certainly it would be very good for us if he stays, it would be very positive," Willian said during an interview with Globo Esporte.

"We have a very good relationship since we were together in the national youth teams. He is a great friend of mine. He doesn't know much about his situation and we do not know whether he will stay or move away. "

Willian, meanwhile, refused to blame Jose Mourinho for the disappointing campaign this year, but voiced hopes Conte will help them to rediscover their best form next season.

"Everyone was guilty, not only [Jose Mourinho]." Willian said when asked what responsibility the Portuguese tactician had for the failed campaign. "I think we all have to take responsibility when the team is bad. We have all been guilty."

Willian then backed Conte to be a success at Stamford Bridge, as he had been during his time with Juventus.

"He [Conte] is a great coach, who has won titles in Italy and was in the national team. He is a very good name for Chelsea. I hope he can have success here, he will come here to help us to win titles at Chelsea. I have not had a conversation with him yet but I believe as soon as he arrives he will have a conversation with all the players."