According to Mundo Deportivo, Arsenal is reportedly prepared to make a strong bid to secure the signing of Palmeiras wonderkid Estevao Willian, even ahead of Barcelona. Despite being only 16 years old and having made just one senior club appearance, Estevao is already hailed as one of the most promising talents in South America.

Although Estevao cannot move to Europe until he turns 18 in the summer of 2025, speculation about his future has been rampant. Mundo Deportivo states that Arsenal is among the clubs willing to make a substantial offer for the young prodigy, who has a €60 million release clause in his contract.

However, Estevao reportedly has a strong preference for a move to Barcelona. The La Liga giants are also interested in the player but face financial challenges at the moment.

Securing Estevao’s signature would be a significant statement for Arsenal. It was only in December 2022 that Real Madrid reached an agreement to sign another Palmeiras talent, Endrick, who will join them once he turns 18 next summer.

Estevao is considered to have similar potential to Endrick. Recently, he impressed for Palmeiras’ Under-20 side in the Copinha tournament, contributing four goals and two assists in just five matches. In addition to his attacking prowess, the right winger boasted an impressive 76% success rate in dribbles and won 45% of his duels. He also averaged 2.8 key passes per game.

Although Estevao has only played a mere 12 minutes of senior football so far, fans can expect to see more of him with Palmeiras until his anticipated move to Europe. At present, Barcelona’s financial situation poses challenges, while Arsenal has other priorities with their first-team squad.

Despite the obstacles, Arsenal should make every effort to outmaneuver Barcelona and secure the young talent’s signature. While it won’t be an easy task, successfully securing Estevao’s future could serve as a significant statement for the club.