Estevao Willian stole the headlines on Tuesday after scoring a sublime goal in Chelsea’s 3-0 win against Barcelona in the Champions League.
It was Estevao’s third goal in the competition this season, with the winger enjoying his debut campaign at Stamford Bridge.
Estevao’s stunning goal against Barcelona!
Chelsea fans on The Chelsea Chronicle voted Marc Cucurella as their Player of the Match, but Estevao was also outstanding on the night.
Unsurprisingly, going forward, it looks like the club want to sign more players like the 18-year-old.
Estevao Willian during Chelsea vs Barcelona
Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images
Chelsea want to make Estevao Willian-type signings every summer
A signing like Vinicius Junior could elevate Chelsea, but the days of bringing a footballer like that to Stamford Bridge seem to be over.
Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol has shared on X that the Blues are “aiming for more Estevaos every summer”.
Finish this sentence: Enzo Maresca should start ______ on the right wing vs Arsenal
Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images
In other words, the club’s transfer strategy will continue to centre around signing young players with potential rather than ready-made superstars.
Cole Palmer is another example of Chelsea recruiting someone who has time to grow and improve. He was just 21 years old and a relatively unknown prospect when the Club World Cup winners signed him in 2023.
Following his own success at Chelsea, former England striker Gary Lineker has tipped Palmer to win the Ballon d’Or one day.
Cole Palmer and Estevao Willian celebrate a goal for Chelsea
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How much did Chelsea pay to sign Estevao Willian?
It is early days, but Estevao can only be described as a bargain. Chelsea paid Palmeiras an initial £29m fee to sign the Brazilian, which is such a low figure in this day and age.
Of course, bonuses, which Estevao is almost certain to trigger based on how he is playing right now, will bring up that fee.
It has already been reported that Chelsea will have to pay Palmeiras extra money if the Brazil international wins the Golden Boy award.
At this rate, it would not be a surprise if Estevao got his hands on the accolade in 2026. At this moment in time, he may just be the best young player in the world.