Florentino Perez reportedly decided against Real Madrid signing Estevao Willian from Palmeiras, freeing the move for Chelsea.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Estevao Willian was the subject of interest from Real Madrid. However, Florentino Perez blocked the move for the 17-year-old Palmeiras wonderkid, who will likely join Chelsea unless other clubs decide to steal a march on them. The young whizkid will cost around €55 million.
Estevao and his rapid rise
Estevao Willian has established himself as one of the best young prospects in the world in the last 12 months. The Brazilian prodigy has been a part of the outbreak of promising talent from Palmeiras, which Endrick initiated nearly two years ago. Since then, Thalys and Luis Guilherme have also risen in prominence at the club.
As for the 17-year-old, he has already broken into the first-team squad at Palmeiras, chipping in with three goals and one assist in only 526 minutes of game time across 15 appearances thus far. Meanwhile, Estevao’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs.
European heavyweights from Serie A, La Liga, and the Premier League have shown interest in the teenage prospect. Recent reports have also linked him with Bayern Munich. As for the latest update, Real Madrid and Chelsea have been keen on securing Estevao’s services, although Florentino Perez put a spanner in the works.
The Chelsea, Real Madrid links
Widespread reports have suggested that Estevao Willian has agreed to join Chelsea after turning 18. The Blues have invested in several highly-rated South American prospects under the Todd Boehly-led regime, with the West London club sealing agreements to sign Kendry Paez, Angelo Gabriel, and several other prodigies. And the Palmeiras wonderkid is also a viable target.
Estevao’s name also appeared on Real Madrid’s wishlist before Los Blancos ruled out a move for the 17-year-old whizkid, who will cost around €55 million. Defensa Central has shed light on the reasoning behind that stance, with Florentino Perez vetoing Real Madrid’s move for the youngster.
With Real Madrid bowing out of the race to secure Estevao’s services, Chelsea will have a clear run at the €55 million-rated Brazilian wonderkid. But it will be interesting to see if other clubs can beat Chelsea to his signature.
