Barcelona continue to track 16-year-old Brazilian whizkid, fully trust his potential

Shortly after the acquisition of Vitor Roque earlier this year, Barcelona’s next target in the Brazilian market was to sign Willian Estevao, commonly known as Messinho for his dribbling skills.

Messinho stems from the same Palmeiras youth academy, which has produced Endrick – arguably the most talented young player in South America right now.

Although Messinho’s links to Barcelona had died down a little after the start of the year, it appears Barça have not lost sight of the youngster at all.

Barcelona trust Messinho’s potential

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are continuously tracking the progress of Willian Estevao at Palmeiras.

The young winger is already a part of the senior team and has made seven competitive appearances, at the age of just 16. He recently appeared as a substitute in the Paulista final’s first leg against Santos.

Estevao Willian scored on his Copa Libertadores debut (Photo by NELSON ALMEIDA/AFP via Getty Images)

As per the report, Barcelona trust Messinho’s potential and expect him to become the next big star in Brazilian football.

Barcelona’s trust in Messinho comes on the back of his recent debut in the Copa Libertadores, with the youngster scoring against Liverpool Montevideo.

Thanks to the goal, Messinho became the third youngest Palmeiras player to score a professional goal – just after Endrick and Heitor.

Competition from the Premier League

While Barcelona see Estevao as an interesting candidate as well as a future prospect, the club could face serious competition from the Premier League.

In recent times, English clubs have missed out on several South American gems such as Rodrygo, Endrick and Vitor Roque.

Keeping that in mind, Premier League clubs could be desperate to get their hands on Messinho, who could be the next big moneymaker, as far as Palmeiras are concerned.

To that end, Barcelona may have a tough time negotiating a deal with Palmeiras as well, knowing the Brazilian outfit will put a higher valuation. Perhaps that is where the expertise of sporting director Deco could come into the fray.