Barcelona are keeping close tabs on Chelsea forward Estevao, who has reportedly grown increasingly 'angry' with his peripheral role at Stamford Bridge, according to reports in Spain.
The 19-year-old joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in the summer of 2025 and enjoyed an eye-catching debut campaign, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. However, a serious hamstring injury in April ended his season early and ruled him out of Brazil's squad for this year's World Cup.
Since Xabi Alonso took over as manager, Estevao has struggled to regain a starting spot, with all four of his Premier League appearances this season coming from the substitutes bench.
Report claims frustration and anger
According to Catalan newspaper SPORT, the situation is generating genuine 'frustration' for Estevao, and his emotions have even turned to 'anger' at times as he feels he is being unfairly 'overlooked'. The forward is now said to hold a 'pessimistic' view over his future with Chelsea and doubts he will receive the first-team minutes he desires this season.
Off the pitch, it is claimed Estevao is 'unwilling to continue gaining muscle mass' to the extent Chelsea would like, as he 'fears' it may be detrimental to his natural game. Despite this, the report stresses that Estevao is not yet considering leaving Chelsea amid strong interest from Barcelona.
Barcelona's long-standing interest
Estevao has been on Barcelona's radar since his early days with Palmeiras, when the Spanish giants received 'very good reports' from their scouts in South America. He remains a firm 'favourite' at the Camp Nou, and sporting director Deco continues to receive information about the teenager's situation in west London.
Estevao still has six-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract at Chelsea.
Estevao and Ancelotti speak
Ahead of Brazil's 1-1 draw with Australia on Friday, Estevao said he was focusing on aspects he could control when asked about his slow start to the season.
'Every coach has their own way of playing, and of course, I work hard every day and give my best. That's what I do,' he told reporters. 'We have many high-quality players at Chelsea. I focus on what I can control. When I have a chance, I try to give my best. I think I've made the most of all the opportunities I've had. I try to control what's within my power and leave tomorrow in God's hands. I also have a lot of faith in myself.'
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti insisted Estevao remained an 'important' figure for the national team despite his lack of club playing time.
'Estevao is a very important player for the national team,' Ancelotti said at his pre-match press conference. 'Sometimes the club's interests are not the same as the national team's interests. For us, Estevao, along with other young players, is very, very important, and if he doesn't get minutes at the club, I'm going to call him up, because we think he's very important for the future, and we're going to give him the opportunity to improve his development.'
