5 potential replacements for Willian at Chelsea

#4 Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad)

Oyarzabal (front) is certainly more creative than Willian

One of the rising stars of Spanish football, Oyarzabal has been one of the best players in La Liga this season. He has been the go-to guy for a Sociedad side that is struggling.

The 21-year-old is the latest in a line of diminutive, left-footed Spanish midfielders whose major qualities include intelligence, creativity and a good instinct for getting into goalscoring positions (e.g David Silva).

Among the youngster's greatest strengths is his exceptional crossing ability, something which Sarri’s men should do more of especially in tight games. Unlike Willian, the Spaniard reads the game better and is quicker at releasing passes; a central tenet of Sarri-ball.

Oyarzabal is always reading the game, assessing the next phase of play and running into space to provide an outlet for teammates. This is something he has in common with Eden Hazard and Lorenzo Insigne; two players who have thrived in Sarri's system. This would be brilliant for the Blues as it means he could be used to stretch play on either flank or in case of an injury, he could fill in for Hazard in that central free role.

One of the captains at La Real following Xabi Prieto's retirement, Oyarzabal recently signed a contract extension and could cost the Blues as much as €80m.