Chelsea and Liverpool are reportedly locked in a transfer battle for Brazilian teenage sensation Estêvão Willian, known earlier in his career as 'Messinho'. The 18-year-old winger, who moved to Chelsea from Palmeiras for £52m last summer, has already made a significant impact in the Premier League, scoring four goals including a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Liverpool.
Estêvão has dismissed comparisons to Lionel Messi, stating he prefers to be his own player. Despite his dislike for comparisons, he is widely tipped as a future Ballon d'Or winner, alongside Barcelona's Lamine Yamal. Both left-footed wingers are 18 and play on the right, but Estêvão has had less exposure to European football, having spent most of his career in South America.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is cautious about overusing the youngster, focusing on protecting him from burnout as he adapts to the Premier League's physicality. Estêvão has made only seven starts in all competitions but has already become a regular for Brazil, scoring twice in the recent international break.
Liverpool's interest in Estêvão adds another layer to the rivalry, with the two clubs set to face each other in the Premier League. However, Chelsea are confident in their investment, with fans and staff impressed by his character and talent. Marc Cucurella, who plays with Estêvão at Chelsea and Lamine Yamal for Spain, noted that both are 'very special players' but that Lamine has more experience in Europe.
