Chelsea beat two Champions-League-participating clubs to sign Palmeiras winger Estevao Willian, according to the player's agent.
Back in June, the Blues finalised a deal that could eventually be worth in the region of £55m if all add-ons are activated for the starlet.
However, with Estevao not turning 18 years of age until later this week, FIFA regulations prevented the Brazil international from making an immediate switch to Stamford Bridge.
As such, the prospect has continued to impress at Palmeiras, where he will remain until after the Club World Cup that will be held in June and July.
That was confirmed in an interview with agent Andre Cury, who told AS that he would remain in the colours of the Brasileiro outfit until after that competition.
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Which clubs missed out on Estevao?
Speaking on Estevao, Cury said: "Yes, he's arriving after the Club World Cup. He's a world-class player. Very good. A guy who's going to make history here."
Much of the interview was centred around Brazilian and Spanish football, yet Cury namechecked Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich as clubs that lost out to Chelsea in the race to acquire Estevao's signature.
He added: "With Estevao, I had interest from PSG, Bayern Munich, Chelsea...from several clubs. Negotiating today is very difficult due to the Fair Play issue.
"Those who don't have the money to invest want to do so to get immediate results. Imagine this: Chelsea signed Estevao a year ago; they've waited a year to be able to enjoy him now, in July. There's no money to do this in Spain. They can't wait."
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How is Estevao progressing in Brazil?
During 2024, Estevao enjoyed a record-breaking campaign in Brasileiro, contributing 13 goals and nine assists from his 31 appearances in the competition.
His return led a call-up to the Brazil senior squad, the playmaker having since gone on to make four appearances for Selecao.
However, Estevao has been far less productive in 2025, chipping in with just six goals and one assist from his 21 outings in all competitions.
In total, 21 goals and 11 assists have come from 67 appearances for Palmeiras, yet there may be concern that he requires a break from the spotlight and pitch despite the continued highlight-reel moments.
Darren Plant
