Chelsea 'confident' of signing 'next Messi'

Tom Weber

• Updated: 7 May 2024 15:29 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea are confident of securing the signing of Palmeiras wonderkid Estevao, according to a report.

The Blues are long-time admirers of the 17-year-old and have been scouting him since at least late last year, according to Fabrizio Romano. A winger so talented he has been nicknamed 'Messinho' - a moniker he isn't particularly fond of - it seems only a matter of time before his exit from Palmeiras is confirmed.

This is despite the fact that his coach, Abel Ferreira, recently begged the club not to sell him, insisting that he is "different from anything I’ve ever seen," which is quite an incredible statement to make from a man who has also overseen the development of Real Madrid-bound Endrick.

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While reports in Brazil had jumped the gun in claiming that Chelsea had already launched a bid, Romano did confirm that talks were taking place. This has now been confirmed by The Athletic and the west London giants, it seems, are stepping up their pursuit of Estevao.

Chelsea confident of signing Estevao

According to the report, Chelsea are confident of securing Estevao's signature, with the player slated to arrive after turning 18 in April 2025. Chelsea are officially in talks over a deal, though it seems a formal offer has still not been tabled.

It is claimed that Palmeiras are willing to accept a fee of €30 million upfront plus significant bonus payments based on the youngster's future performances, similar to how they structured their Endrick deal with Real Madrid.

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It is claimed that, despite being impressed with the teenager, Los Blancos have not officially entered the race for Estavao due to their chief scout's poor relationship with the player's agent. Barcelona have also been keeping tabs on him, but their financial situation makes a deal all but impossible.