Manchester United are very much in the running to sign Palmeiras winger Estevao Willian, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Catalan publication claims that the Red Devils are one of four Premier League teams (along with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City) who are putting “maximum pressure” on Palmeiras to sell the teenager.
Estevao has the nickname Messinho (or “Little Messi) in Brazil, with many likening his style of play to the Argentinian legend. It is believed that his performances at the Under 17 World Cup last month caught the eye of scouts.
At the tournament, the 16-year-old scored 3 goals and provided 3 assists in 5 appearances before Brazil were knocked out by Argentina in the quarter-finals.
Estevao has an eye-watering price tag
Mundo Deportivo report that Palmeiras are refusing to sell their prized asset for below his €60m (£52m) release clause. That is despite the fact that he only made his senior debut against Cruzeiro earlier this month.
The high valuation should favour United and other Premier League teams, who have the finances to outmuscle clubs from other countries. However, the player’s agent may also play a role in who he joins.
United will have to beat Barcelona for the winger’s signature
In addition to the aforementioned English teams and Paris Saint-Germain, it is thought that Barcelona also want Estevao.
Andre Cury, who represents the player, negotiated Vitor Roque’s move to Barca from Athletico Paranaense earlier this year, and he has a good relationship with the La Liga champions.
Despite that important link, though, there are question marks over whether the Catalan club can afford to splash out on Estevao, considering their current financial situation. That may, therefore, help United’s cause if they do step up their interest in the Brazilian forward.
