Neymar reacts with fresh prediction as Chelsea-bound Estevao Willian breaks new record

Evening Standard

·22 October 2024

Neymar reacts with fresh prediction as Chelsea-bound Estevao Willian breaks new record

Teenager overtakes Brazilian great after goal and an assist

The forward will join the Blues this summer after the club struck a deal worth an initial £29.5m with current club Palmeiras in May.

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Estevao, dubbed ‘Little Messi’ in his native Brazil, is regarded as one of the hottest prospects in world football and is already making an impact in the Campeonato Brasileiro.

Previously tipped to be a “genius” by Neymar, the 17-year-old broke a record held by the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star.

A goal and an assist during his side’s 5-3 win over Juventude on Sunday night took his tally of goal contributions up to 18, officially becoming the most productive under-17 player in the history of the Brazilian top-flight.

“Congratulations Estêvão Willian for breaking the record!,” wrote Neymar.

“I hope you continue shining & enchanting people with your football”.

Neymar held the record with 16 having come through the ranks at Santos before moving to Europe in 2013.

The deal to take Estevao to Chelsea could rise to more than £51m by way of various add-ons, which would make the forward the most expensive South American teenager in history.