Chelsea reach verbal agreement over personal terms with 17-year-old Barcelona target

Estevao ‘Messinho’ Willian has become one of the most sought-after young prospects coming through from Brazil, with a host of top European teams vying for his signing.

The Brazilian wonderkid has also been heavily linked with a move to FC Barcelona, who have a good relationship with his agent, Andre Cury.

Furthermore, the Palmeiras gem had himself gone on the record stating that he dreamt of playing for the Catalan heavyweights.

But, Barcelona’s financial situation was always going to make the signing difficult and it now appears that Estevao will slip out of the Catalans’ hands for good.

Chelsea agree personal terms

Indeed, as per Fabrizio Romano, Premier League big-spenders Chelsea have now reached a verbal agreement over personal terms with Estevao Willian.

Earlier this week, we reported that the Blues had entered into talks to sign the 17-year-old prodigy, who can move to Europe next year once he turns 18.

Things have moved quite swiftly now, with a verbal agreement over personal terms in place.

Chelsea-bound. (Photo by NELSON ALMEIDA/AFP via Getty Images)

Negotiations with Palmeiras are still ongoing, with a first bid worth around €32 million plus add-ons set to be submitted imminently.

Estevao has a release clause worth €60 million in his contract and Palmeiras will seek a total package that will meet that value.

It was something that was out of the question for Barcelona at this point given their financial situation.

Furthermore, the La Liga giants have other, more pressing needs to address in the squad, such as the signing of a new pivot and a left-winger, among others.

As such, Estevao will not be fulfilling his dream of playing for Barcelona for now, with Chelsea the favourites to clinch his signing.