Chelsea’s shock ‘plan’ to integrate Estevao in 2025

Chelsea will utilise Estevao as an attacking midfielder rather than a winger when he joins up with the first-team squad next year, a report has claimed.

The Blues have agreed a total package worth up to £51m to sign the young starlet from Palmeiras, and he will head to west London in the summer of 2025 after he turns 18.

Nicknamed ‘Messinho’ due to his similarities with Lionel Messi, Estevao is widely considered one of the world’s leading talents, and he has made his name as a right winger.

However, Brazilian outlet UOL claim Chelsea have other ideas for Estevao, who they see as a No. 10.

The club believe this will allow him to get on the ball more often and drift out wide as he sees fit, giving him more creative licence as soon as he arrives at Stamford Bridge.

At present, Cole Palmer is Chelsea’s starting attacking midfielder. Palmer has proven to be one of the Blues’ most successful signings since he arrived from Manchester City last summer, taking home the PFA Young Player of the Year award and receiving a Ballon d’Or nomination.

Estevao has great admiration for Palmer and has mimicked his signature ‘cold’ celebration at Palmeiras.

Meanwhile, Estevao’s agent, Andre Cury, has spoken of Chelsea’s plan to bring his client into their starting lineup.

“He adapts to any style of play. Chelsea is a club that sees Estevao playing as a No. 10, and that is important. He can develop even more playing in the middle,” he said.

Estevao made his Brazil debut in Friday night’s 1-0 win at home to Ecuador, in which he came up against future Chelsea teammate Kendry Paez.