Barcelona leads the race for Brazilian prodigy Estevao amid stiff competition from Premier League and European giants

In European football’s transfer market, Barcelona has emerged as the frontrunner in the pursuit of Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian, popularly known as “Messinho.” Despite facing stiff competition from some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League and across Europe, the Catalan giants appear to be in pole position to secure the services of the 16-year-old sensation.

Messinho, who has been making waves with his performances for Brazilian champions Palmeiras, has attracted interest from a host of top clubs, including Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain. However, reports from various sources, including Mundo Deportivo and UOL Esporte, suggest that Barcelona is currently leading the race.

The young winger, a self-proclaimed Barcelona fan, has expressed his desire to play for the Blaugrana, which has given the Spanish club an edge in negotiations. Despite Barcelona’s well-documented financial struggles, they are reportedly making efforts to arrange talks with Messinho’s agent, Andre Cury, to facilitate a potential move.

Palmeiras, on their part, are in no hurry to sell their new prized asset. Having already secured a lucrative deal for Endrick Felipe with Real Madrid last year, the Brazilian club is looking to maximize their return on investment for Messinho. The player’s €60 million release clause is a testament to his burgeoning talent and market value.

Messinho’s situation is further complicated by his age. As he is still only 16, any potential transfer would not materialize until 2025, when he turns 18, Barca Blaugranes. This delay offers Barcelona some breathing room to sort out their financial issues and potentially meet the player’s release clause.

The interest in Messinho is not limited to Barcelona. Premier League giants like Manchester United and Chelsea, along with PSG and Manchester City, are also keen on triggering his release clause. In October, Messinho’s father traveled to Manchester, London, Paris, and Barcelona to listen to the sporting proposals from these clubs. Despite the interest from these football powerhouses, Barcelona remains the preferred destination for both Messinho and his family.

Messinho’s talent and potential have not gone unnoticed in the football world. His style of play, coupled with his technical skills, has drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi, hence his nickname “Messinho.” His competitive debut for Palmeiras against Cruzeiro earlier this month only heightened the excitement around his future.