Palmeiras winger Estevao Willian has admitted he is “really happy” to know Chelsea officials are watching him play, with the Blues still in talks over a blockbuster deal.
Chelsea have struck an agreement over personal terms with the 17-year-old, known more commonly by the ‘Messinho’ nickname he does not like, and are chasing a deal worth close to £60m with Palmeiras.
Blues officials were in the stands on Wednesday to watch Estevao in action against Independiente del Valle and fellow 17-year-old Kendry Paez, who will make his own move to Stamford Bridge next summer.
Asked about his feelings towards Chelsea’s interest after the game, Estevao told ESPN: “Man, I’m really happy. I think they are watching because of what I’m doing with Palmeiras.
“Today, my mind is 100% Palmeiras, and I’m trying to help Palmeiras as much as possible on the pitch. [Chelsea’s interest] is a consequence of that. God willing, he’s blessing me.”
Estevao’s Palmeiras contract includes a release clause of £47m, which would need to be paid immediately, but Chelsea are negotiating a deal which would see them pay a higher fee on more favourable payment terms.
Reports suggest Chelsea will look to pay an initial £27m, with a further £21m in add-ons, as well as covering taxes which would take the cost of any deal up towards the £60m mark.
Bayern Munich were recently touted as potential rivals to Chelsea’s pursuit of Estevao but the German side are not expected to chase such a deal.
Barcelona are known admirers of Estevao, who has openly named the Catalan outfit as his dream transfer, but their well-known financial issues will prevent them from offering any competition in the race for the teenager’s signature.