Chelsea are keeping very close tabs on Palmeiras winger Estevao Willian, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Writing in his Daily Briefing column under the title of “Chelsea monitoring Brazil’s next big thing”, Romano said that the teenager has been watched by the Blues for over five months:

“I can guarantee once again that scouts from all over Europe, including Chelsea for a long time now, are travelling to scout this boy.”

“Chelsea scouts have been in attendance since all the way back in October – the interest is there, even if there haven’t been any negotiations yet.”

How much would it cost to sign Estevao?

The 16-year-old has a €60m (£51m) release clause in his contract and that is the figure that Palmeiras are demanding clubs match if they want to sign him.

It’s a massive fee for a player who has played just 5 senior games so far in his career. He did, though, impress playing for Brazil at the Under 17 World Cup late last year, scoring 3 goals and providing 3 assists in 5 games before his country were knocked out at the quarter-final stage by Argentina.

Will Chelsea face rivals to secure the teenager’s signature?

Back at the end of last year, it was reported that there were no less than six high-profile European clubs (including the Blues) pursuing Estevao, following his displays at the World Cup.

Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United are reportedly also monitoring the youngster.

It should be pointed out though that, even if Chelsea do win the race for Estevao, he wouldn’t make the switch to Stamford Bridge straight away. Much like Kendry Paez, the Palmeiras winger would have to wait until he is 18 to officially complete the transfer. He will turn 17 next month so any deal would be made official in the summer of 2025.