Chelsea Set for £47m Transfer of Estevao Willian, Thanks to Lamine Yamal’s Rise at Barcelona
Chelsea’s reported £47 million signing of Brazilian talent Estevao Willian has intriguing connections to Lamine Yamal’s emergence at Barcelona. The young forward is set to join the Premier League club next summer, marking a significant addition to their squad from Palmeiras.
Key personnel at Chelsea believe Estevao is a genuinely elite talent, having fended off competition from some of Europe’s top clubs, including Barcelona.
Initially interested in signing Estevao, Barcelona’s pursuit diminished when Yamal made headlines after breaking into their first team at just 16.
Now 17, Yamal has become integral to Barcelona and was instrumental in Spain’s Euro 2024 success.
Chelsea’s management views Estevao as a similar player to Yamal—an exciting left-footed attacker capable of playing both as a winger and a No. 10.
However, it appears Chelsea envisions Estevao taking on a more central role, which could raise concerns for Cole Palmer, who has been favored in the attacking midfield position under coach Enzo Maresca.
Palmer has made a strong start to the season, contributing to six goals in five Premier League matches.
However, with Estevao’s impressive record of 15 goals and 10 assists in all competitions this season and his ability to break records like Neymar’s, competition for playing time will intensify.
Estevao equaled Neymar’s record for the most goals scored in the Brazilian top flight before turning 18, netting nine goals and providing seven assists.
Chelsea plans to integrate Estevao into the first team rather than loan him out, which may position him as a direct competitor for Palmer.
Palmeiras has been cautious in developing Estevao, with coach Abel Ferreira prioritizing his health and training intensity to ensure a sustainable career trajectory. As Chelsea prepares for Estevao’s arrival, the stakes for Palmer and the team’s attacking dynamics continue to rise.
Chelsea Set for £47m Transfer of Estevao Willian, Thanks to Lamine Yamal’s Rise at Barcelona
