Chelsea has further continued the pursuit of some of the brightest young talents available with the signing of Brazilian wing sensation Estevao Willian. They are also actively working out a deal for Argentine defender Aaron Anselmino.
These purchases are typical of Chelsea’s strategy under its holding company, BlueCo: to assemble the world’s finest young footballers, particularly from South America.
Estevao Willian, the 17-year-old prodigy from Palmeiras, has reportedly signed a deal to join the Blues next summer. It is said that the basic fee for the transfer would be £29 million, with more added in performance-related add-ons.
Estevao has already made a mark in his nascent career, netting four goals from 17 senior appearances in the Brazilian Serie A, Copa do Brasil, and Copa Libertadores. His performances have not gone unnoticed, and Chelsea has acted fast to secure one of Brazil’s most exciting young prospects.
Estevao has been handed a one-year contract, becoming the latest South American talent to make the move to Chelsea. He follows fellow Brazilians Andrey Santos, Deivid Washington and Angelo Gabriel, who have also moved to Stamford Bridge. As well as this Eredivisie trio, the Blues also signed 17-year-old Ecuador forward Kendry Paez, who will officially join the club in 2025 from Independiente del Valle.
“I feel so pleased to be part of such a prestigious club like Chelsea,” Estevao said. “It’s a dream come true, and I’m looking forward to adding value to the team’s success, with a view to improving my skills in such a competitive environment.”
The Blues are also working on strengthening their defense, reportedly eyeing Aaron Anselmino as a probable signing. The 19-year-old centre-back, currently playing for Boca Juniors, has reportedly been the subject of an official offer of around £12 million to £15 million.
If he completes the move, Anselmino is likely to go on loan to partner club Strasbourg, who are part of the same BlueCo umbrella, where he will get precious European time while going under Chelsea’s close eye.
Strasbourg, in France’s Ligue 1, exposes players in a very competitive setting, which can bring them up to the mettle and prepare them for any future opportunities in the Premier League.
The long-term vision within Chelsea is well laid out through the investment they are making in young talent. Securing top prospects like Estevao and chasing others such as Anselmino will put them in a position for sustained success. This approach works not only to bolster staff depth but also places them as a prime destination for some of the world’s most promising players.
