Manchester City and Chelsea find themselves in a heated race for the acquisition of the highly-talented Brazilian wonderkid, Estevao. Despite initial reports suggesting City’s interest, Chelsea appears to have taken the lead in pursuing the 16-year-old prodigy from Palmeiras, regarded as one of South America’s best.
Estevao’s journey began in the Cruzeiro academy, where his remarkable promise earned him a Nike deal at the age of ten, setting a record as the youngest Brazilian to do so, surpassing Rodrygo Goes. Having joined Palmeiras in 2021, he is yet to make his debut with the first team.
While Chelsea has reportedly contacted intermediaries to secure Estevao and his teammate Luis Guilherme when they turn 18, Manchester City remains a formidable contender in the race. City, eager to challenge Chelsea’s pursuit, views Estevao as a ‘real phenomenon,’ according to his agent Andre Cury. Notably, other Premier League giants, Arsenal and Manchester United, are also reportedly expressing interest.
Despite Chelsea’s willingness to pay £35 million for Estevao, concerns arise regarding the club’s recent recruitment strategy and overall stability. City, on the other hand, offers a compelling alternative with its renowned City Football Academy (CFA), considered one of the best globally. The CFA’s reputation could potentially sway Estevao’s decision, providing him with an environment conducive to his development.
While Chelsea’s recent forays into the South American market have seen success with players like Andrey Santos and Angel, doubts persist about the club’s ability to nurture young international talent. The contrasting situations at Chelsea and City prompt considerations for Estevao, who must weigh the potential benefits of joining either club. In this intense race for a rising star, the outcome remains uncertain, with both Manchester City and Chelsea vying for the opportunity to secure Estevao’s future in English football.
