Real Madrid not in the race for 17-year-old Chelsea target despite receiving positive reports | OneFootball

Earlier this month, reports emerged claiming that Real Madrid had entered the race to sign Estevao Willian, also known as ‘Messinho’, from Palmeiras once he turns 18 next year.

The 17-year-old teenage sensation has been making waves in Brazil with his performances for Palmeiras’ youth team while he has also made a big impression since making his senior debut.

Having struck a deal with the Brazilian club for Endrick in the past, it was believed that Real Madrid could look to engineer a similar operation for Estevao.

Real Madrid ruled out of race for Estevao

However, as per the latest update from Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, Real Madrid are not in the race to sign Estevao Willian from Palmeiras.

Instead, it is Chelsea who appear to be well-positioned to sign the 17-year-old prodigy, as they have already initiated talks with Palmeiras over a deal.

Estevao bound for Chelsea? (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)

Real Madrid had followed Estevao and received positive reports on the teenage sensation, the report adds.

However, the poor relationship between the Merengues’ chief scout, Juni Calafat, and the youngster’s agent, Andre Cury, meant that a transfer was not possible.

Instead, it is now Chelsea, who have brought in a plethora of young talents from Brazil in recent times like Angelo Gabriel, Andrey Santos, and Deivid Washington, that are likely to land the generational talent that is Estevao.

The youngster will be eligible to move to England once he turns 18 next year, with Palmeiras prepared to accept an offer of around €30 million (fixed) plus variables based on performance.