Chelsea are on the verge of signing Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian, a 17-year-old winger from Palmeiras, for a £56 million (€65m) fee.
Known as ‘Messinho’ due to his playing style’s resemblance to Lionel Messi, Estevao has been highly sought after, with Barcelona also showing interest.
Estevao gained early fame, signing a sponsorship deal with Nike at just ten years old, making him the youngest Brazilian to do so.
He began his youth career at Cruzeiro in 2017 before moving to Palmeiras in 2021, where he made his senior debut at 16 in December 2023.
Despite limited first-team experience, with just 17 appearances, three goals, and one assist, Chelsea sees him as a huge addition.
The deal, set to be finalized for when Estevao turns 18 in 2025, will make him the most expensive export in South American football history.
This surpasses Neymar’s controversial move from Santos to Barcelona, which officially cost £63 million but saw a significant portion go to Neymar’s parents.
🚨🔵 Chelsea have sent their new formal proposal to Palmeiras for Willian Estevão, as revealed earlier this week.
From initial €32m plus €25m add-ons rejected, Chelsea new bid is now for €65m package, add-ons included.
All agreed on player side since two weeks ago.
⌛️🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/pH66u502Sb
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 18, 2024
Estevao’s rise has been rapid. From winning multiple youth trophies to playing in the Brazilian Under-17 World Cup.
His quick development has reportedly earned him regular games for Palmeiras.
