Chelsea face Estevao exit threat as major transfer update drops

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Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Barcelona are closely monitoring Estevao Willian’s situation at Chelsea amid rumours that he could look to leave the club next year if he fails to work his way into Xabi Alonso’s preferred XI.

The Brazil wonderkid has not started a single Premier League match so far this season and it appears unlikely that he will establish himself as a regular under Alonso unless the new Blues manager moves away from his favoured 3-4-2-1 system.

Estevao is currently in competition with Cole Palmer for a place in Chelsea’s starting XI and it’s a battle that he is losing, with the 19-year-old racking up just 23 minutes of action from a possible 450 in the Premier League this term.

As a result, reports have speculated that Estevao is growing frustrated by his status at Stamford Bridge and Spanish outlet SPORT confirm that Barcelona sporting director Deco is keeping close tabs on the Brazilian’s lack of game time.

The Brazil attacker was heavily linked with a Camp Nou switch before his move to Chelsea last summer and despite the presence of Lamine Yamal, the Blaugarana remain interested in finalising a possible deal for Estevao in 2027.

SPORT claim that Estevao is not currently looking to leave Chelsea next year, despite reports to the contrary, but Barcelona are monitoring his situation and they are ready to pounce if he gives the green light to a potential transfer.

What has Estevao said?

Despite his lack of game time so far this campaign, Estevao has confirmed that he isn’t looking to leave Chelsea and is instead eager to work his way into favour under Alonso.

“I think every coach has their own way of playing,” he told ESPN while on Brazil duty at the start of the September international break.

“Of course, we work every day, I give my best every day, and that's what I do. We have quality players at Chelsea, so what I do is focus on what I can control, I try to give my best in training, when I get an opportunity I try to give my best, it goes day after day.

“I try to seize every opportunity I have, I try to control everything I can and I leave it in God's hands, and I trust myself a lot too.”

Estevao has seven years remaining on his current contract at Chelsea, and his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at €78.7 million.