Chelsea recently reached a verbal agreement with Brazilian giants Palmeiras, with the English side set to pay $71 million for starlet Estêvão. Estêvão, who turned 17 just a month ago, has been heralded as one of the best talents in the world.
The deal includes an initial $37 million transfer fee along with roughly $34 million in add-ons. Not only will it be Palmeiras‘ most lucrative transfer ever, but his transfer is the most expensive ever for anyone under 18 years old.
Estêvão won’t turn 18 until next April, so he won’t be eligible to join Chelsea until April 2025. Chelsea’s swoop follows similar moves for Kendry Paez, Ângelo, Andrey Santos, and more. The urgency of the deal follows a failed coup for Endrick. Chelsea beat out Barça, Arsenal, and more for Estêvão’s services.
“Man, I’m really happy. I think they are watching because of what I’m doing with Palmeiras,” he told ESPN after a win in the Copa Libertadores.
“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.”
As part of their Vision 2030 project, Chelsea has prioritized buying out young, promising talent over already-made stars, focusing on South American talents.
Estêvão has exciting future
Estêvão is one of the best players in Brazil, if not in South America. The Palmeiras right winger dominated the Copinha, the national U-20 club tournament, scoring four goals and adding two assists in five appearances.
He’s helped Palmeiras to a Paulistão championship while putting in solid performances in the Copa Libertadores and the Serie A. Scouts frequently compare him to Lionel Messi thanks to his agility, dribbling, and creativity. His unique ability to beat his man on the wing and create shots for others has marked him as one of one.
Estêvão leads an exciting Palmeiras squad favored to win the Copa…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/chelsea-agree-71-million-deal-for-starlet-estevao/
Author : Deolu Akingbade
Publish date : 2024-05-18 16:42:21
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