The Brazil international had been linked with a move to Liverpool and Tottenham during the transfer window, but Chelsea appeared to sneak under the radar to secure the attacking midfielder's signature.
However, Willian has explained that a move to Stamford Bridge had been on the cards for two months prior to his move.
The 25-year-old signed for Anzhi Makhachkala in January in a €35 million deal from Shakhtar Donetsk, but the Russian club's decision to cut costs left him seeking a move.
"They (Chelsea) made an offer two months ago but I was not allowed to leave," the playmaker told Brazilian television station Sportv.
"I kept following the club and I used to go to London to follow Chelsea whenever I had free time and now my dream has come true.
"Other clubs were interested, but my intention and dream of playing for Chelsea made the difference."
