Estevao Willian taps the badge. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

The Athletic reveal when Chelsea began scouting Brazilian sensation Estevao

Originally posted on Chelsea News | By Charlie Patrick | Last updated Oct 18, 2025 2:15 AM ET

Chelsea started scouting Estevao Willian when he joined Brazilian club Palmeiras according to The Athletic.

The Blues agreed a deal which could be worth up to £51.4m with Palmeiras in 2024, but the teenager only joined after the Club World Cup this summer.

Estevao has made a brilliant start to the season, and has put in a number of impressive performances for both club and country.

When Chelsea first scouted Estevao Willian

Estevao is regarded as the best player to come out Brazil since Neymar, and he’s adapted to life in England very quickly.

The teenager is on the verge of forcing his way into becoming a regular starter already, such has been his impact.

Estevao scored a last minute winner against Liverpool, and also scored twice for Brazil during the recent international break.

John Terry wants Estevao to start against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, and Chelsea beat a number of top clubs to his signature.

The Athletic have reported sources say Chelsea first started scouting Estevao when he joined Palmeiras, and he was already regarded within the club as one of the best three youngsters in the world.

The report adds the other two were Estevao’s former team-mate Endrick who joined Real Madrid, and Lamine Yamal of Barcelona.

Chelsea using South American market to great effect

Estevao isn’t the only South American Chelsea have signed, and the Blues have really tapped into that market under the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital ownership.

Chelsea have signed Andrey Santos, who excelled on loan at Strasbourg and is now part of the first team set-up.

Talented defender Aaron Anselmino is also highly regarded, and has been sent on loan to Borussia Dortmund, whilst Kendry Paez, another promising talent is spending the season at Strasbourg.

Paez was highly regarded in South America, and a year in Ligue 1 should really help with his development before possibly being part of the first team squad next season.

This article first appeared on Chelsea News and was syndicated with permission.

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