Estevao Willian could be welcomed to Stamford Bridge sooner rather than later following a meteoric rise to superstardom. Chelsea wrapped up a deal for the 17-year-old winger, who made his senior debut for Brazil on Friday night, in the summer, agreeing a deal with Palmeiras worth an initial £29m, plus performance-related add-ons.
The Blues raised eyebrows when they forked out such a hefty fee for Estevao, but now he looks to be a shrewd investment. This season, the teenage sensation has featured 21 times for Palmeiras in the Brasileirão, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists.
Playing a crucial role in Abel Ferreira’s side, Estevao has helped the Verdão climb to third in the Brazilian top flight – and they’re only three-points adrift of Botafogo, who are currently leading the title race. Regardless of whether the Blues ace guides Palmeiras to glory, the west Londoners can be confident that they’ve made an excellent signing.
According to Brazilian outlet Nosso Palestra, Chelsea are planning to bring Estevao to England once the domestic season finishes in his homeland. As it stands, the Brasileirão will draw to a close at the start of December, with Palmeiras’ final game coming against Fluminense, who are currently just two points from the drop zone.
The report states that Chelsea are currently in talks with both the player and the Verdão to arrange a trip where he will receive a tour of Stamford Bridge and Cobham training ground – just as they’ve done previously with Kendry Paez. Assuming Estevao touches down during the festive period, he may have the chance to attend a game or two.
The youngster may even get the chance to chat with Enzo Maresca, who appears to already have planned for his official arrival in the summer. According to Brazilian TV programme GE Globo, as quoted by Sport Witness, the west Londoners believe that Estevao could thrive in a central role, despite having made a name for himself as a winger.
In the Brazilian’s absence, Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku have been enjoying central roles behind the striker. While the season is still in its infancy, Maresca has been impressed by the former Manchester City midfielder’s start to the campaign.
Speaking to the official club website ahead of Chelsea’s clash against Crystal Palace, the Blues boss said: “I’ve been very impressed with Cole, even though I have known him very well for many years.
“It’s never easy to repeat the same numbers as last year in terms of goals and assists, but the most important thing for Cole is to enjoy football, relax and not feel pressure on his shoulders. He has to enjoy training every day and then the goals and assists will come for sure.”
