Chelsea are looking to increase their collection of young stars by signing 17-year-old Estevao ‘Messinho’ Willian from Palmeiras.

Teenage sensation Estevao Willian is being courted by Europe’s elite after his promising displays for Palmeiras and Brazil’s youth sides. According to UOL, Chelsea are now prepared to table a substantial €55 million (£47 million or $58 million) bid after reportedly failing with their first two offers for the winger.

Willian plays alongside Real Madrid-bound Endrick at Palmeiras and has so far chalked up 12 senior appearances in all competitions for the Brazilian outfit. He appears to be the latest young star to emerge from the club and will soon attempt to follow in the footsteps of Cafu, Rivaldo, and Gabriel Jesus by moving and then succeeding at the top of the European game.

But even if Chelsea were to fend off competition from the likes of Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona to complete the signing, Willian would not be able to make his way to West London until next summer. Employment law forbids such a move until the player involved turns 18.

The Blues want to continue their mission of signing the most promising youngsters in world football by getting a deal for Willian over the line. Although given Mauricio Pochettino’s struggles at times this season, there is perhaps a school of thought that the money would be better invested in more senior pros to help guide and mentor the youthful talent at Stamford Bridge.