Chelsea’s newest talent Estevao Willian was almost a Barcelona player, according to his own agent, who has revealed the stunning details of the transfer that nearly happened.
Barcelona’s Loss, Chelsea’s Gain: The Inside Story of Estevao’s Transfer
Agent Andre Cury has stated that he tried for years to steer the Brazilian prodigy to the Camp Nou.
He even took former Barcelona director Eric Abidal to Brazil to see a young Estevao play as far back as 2019.
Cury confirmed he held discussions with the Catalan club in 2021, 2022, 2023, and again in 2024, insisting the technical staff always approved of the potential signing.
However, a move collapsed because of Barcelona’s dire financial situation. Despite the player’s “special affection” for Barca, the club’s director of football, Deco, could not greenlight the operation.
This opened the door for Chelsea, who secured a deal with Palmeiras worth an initial £29 million, potentially rising to £55 million.
The revelation comes just after Estevao showcased his incredible potential on the biggest stage.
He scored a superb solo goal in Chelsea’s 3-0 Champions League victory over Barcelona, a performance that immediately drew comparisons to Lionel Messi.
Despite the buzz, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca immediately pushed back against the Messi comparisons.
He urged everyone to let the 18-year-old enjoy his football without the immense pressure of being likened to all-time greats, emphasizing that such talk is “too much for them.”
Meanwhile, in other football news, new Liverpool boss Arne Slot has reportedly been given an ultimatum concerning one of his star players.
Club officials are allegedly demanding he drop a player described as “disgraceful” in his performances or face the risk of being sacked, placing immediate pressure on the Dutchman at Anfield.
