Barça keeps a close eye on Premier League talent Estêvão

FC Barcelona is closely monitoring the situation of the 19‑year‑old Brazilian Estêvão at Chelsea, after his playing time under new manager Xabi Alonso at Stamford Bridge has sharply decreased. The Catalan club hopes to later offer him a way out of London. Sport has reported that Deco, sporting director, has put the striker back on his radar.

Barcelona sees potential in Estêvão

The 19‑year‑old Brazilian came onto FC Barcelona’s radar via Palmeiras, when he was still spotted in the Catalan region. At the time he was closely followed by the club, although he had not yet been playing for Chelsea.

Last season, when Enzo Maresca was in charge, Estêvão became one of Chelsea’s most talked‑about players. His attacking flair attracted a lot of attention in the Premier League media.

Under the new manager Xabi Alonso, however, his playing time has sharply decreased. He started the season without a single Premier League appearance and receives only a few minutes per match.

Sporting director Deco has put the striker back on his list, with the intention of freeing him from his suffering in London. Barcelona regards him as a player with a clear Barça profile.

A direct transfer is currently not possible, because the transfer window is closed and Alonso repeatedly emphasized that there will be plenty of opportunities for Estêvão in the Chelsea shirt.

Chelsea acknowledges the Brazilian’s talent and is therefore not eager to let him leave. The club management still sees potential in his development.

In Catalonia he is even cautiously compared to Neymar Jr., while he recently made his first start for the Brazilian national team in an international match.