Premier League heavyweights Arsenal are reportedly ready to intensify their interest in Estevao Willian, a target for Barcelona and Chelsea.
According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, as relayed by Sport Witness, Estevao Willian is the subject of interest from Arsenal. The Gunners are ready to intensify their efforts to sign the Brazilian wonderkid. Barcelona and Chelsea are also interested in signing the Palmeiras prodigy, valued at €60 million.
The Estevao Willian Story
Estevao Willian has become a hot property in the market after his exploits in age-group football in his homeland. The 16-year-old has been with Palmeiras since May 2021, arriving from Cruzeiro. And he has come leaps and bounds in the last two and a half years.
The Brazilian whizkid has already made his first-team debut for Palmeiras. Meanwhile, he has started the 2023 season well with the club’s under-20 team, amassing four goals and two assists in five appearances in the Copinha. Estevao’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, including Arsenal, Barcelona and Chelsea. Meanwhile, he will cost around €60 million.
Many European Bigwigs Want Him
Arsenal’s interest in Estevao Willian is hardly surprising, considering Mikel Arteta is overseeing a youth-driven project at the Emirates. The Gunners have progressed considerably under the Spaniard, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli blossoming into top-class attackers. And the Palmeiras prodigy can be the next wonderkid to benefit from the Arsenal manager’s coaching.
Meanwhile, Estevao’s preferred destination will be Barcelona, with the Blaugrana keen on signing him. But Barcelona’s financial woes mean they will unlikely afford his valuation of €60 million. Nonetheless, the 16-year-old is a viable target for the reigning La Liga champions.
As for Chelsea, the Blues are reportedly the best-placed club to sign Estevao after stepping up their efforts to secure his services. They have been active in the Brazilian market under the Todd Boehly-led regime. And Chelsea and Arsenal are ‘willing to bid hard’ to sign the Brazilian whizkid.
But Estevao’s affinity towards Barcelona means the Blaugrana might have a glimmer of hope to land him. However, they will have to work hard to raise the money, with Arsenal and Chelsea in a much better financial position to afford him.
