Chelsea have invested heavily in young prospects over the past 18 months, and their spending spree is showing no signs of slowing. The Blues have reportedly opened talks with Palmeiras for Estevao Willian and are keen to strike a deal before other sides pounce.
According to Goal Brazil, negotiations are ongoing between Chelsea and Palmeiras for the 16-year-old and conversations are ongoing about how a deal would be structured. A total package worth £34million is at the heart of conversations, with the Blues open to forking out such a fee for the talented midfielder.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side are keen to strike a deal as soon as possible, despite Estevao not being able to make the move to the Premier League until he turns 18 in 2025. Chelsea are willing to pay an upfront fee of £17m for the playmaker, with the remaining £17m only being due if certain clauses in his contract being met.
Real Madrid were the first to strike this type of deal with Palmeiras last year when they signed Endrick, who is viewed as a future Brazilian great. And Chelsea will be hoping that they are jumping the gun to sign another breakthrough talent from South America.
Paris Saint-Germain are fond admirers of Estevao and saw a bid for his services rejected over the summer, whilst Arsenal and Barcelona are monitoring his progress closely with the view of striking a deal further down the line – having saw individual enquiries rebuffed previously.
Pochettino is building a squad with a strong South American core, and he will be hoping the prospect of working with the likes of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez for many years to come will prove persuasive in negotiations.
