According to Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, Chelsea is considering activating the release clause of teenage player Estevao Willian of Palmeiras because they expect intense competition from Barcelona.
The Blues are preparing to raid the Brazilian market once more for one of its most promising prospects, Estevao, as they ponder making a formal offer. The Blues have already signed young players from the Brazilian Serie A, including Gabriel Angelo, Andrey Santos, and Deivid Washington.
The 16-year-old is reportedly attracting interest from Barcelona, for whom Estevao had previously spoken affection. Galetti also reports that Chelsea is planning to quicken negotiations with Palmeiras in order to sign the promising forward.
Estevao has a £52 million release clause in his contract with the Allianz Parque, which is scheduled to expire in 2026, the journalist reports.
South American treasure
Estevao, who was born in April 2007, will turn 18 in 2025. Chelsea is considering a plan akin to Real Madrid’s successful acquisition of Endrick, a striker.
The 16-year-old has drawn interest from prestigious clubs throughout Europe after establishing himself as a first-team regular for Abel Ferreira’s team. Barcelona and Chelsea are reportedly among the teams fighting for Estevao’s signing because of his remarkable ability in age-group football.
Due to his exceptional age-group football accomplishments, Estevao has grown to be a highly sought-after player, attracting the interest of elite European teams. During the World Cup, the 16-year-old was an important player of Brazil’s under-17 team, contributing to three goals in five games.
He is praised as “Messinho” in Brazil, a nickname he got for his remarkable ball-manipulation abilities that drew comparisons to the great Lionel Messi. Estevao’s potential as an intriguing talent in the football world is highlighted by this award.
Although Chelsea has assembled a squad that includes talented young players like Tyrique George, Jimmy-Jay Morgan, Leo Castledine, and Deivid Washington, they still lack an immediate offensive threat in Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja, who have failed to live up to expectations this season.
The club was rumored to be interested in signing Victor Osimhen of Napoli for £100 million ($126 million) in January. Nevertheless, there is a chance that the Financial Fair Play (FFP) limitations will remain unclear, which could jeopardize this agreement.
Chelsea must therefore overcome these obstacles in order to strengthen their attacking alternatives during the next transfer window.