Chelsea's £51m winger could join Everton in January to replace Iliman Ndiaye

Former Chelsea and Everton winger Pat Nevin says the Brazil international Estevao Willian, who cost the London club £51million in fees and add‑ons, should be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge in the January window to replace Manchester City’s Iliman Ndiaye at Goodison Park.

Limited game time at Chelsea

Estevao, a 19‑year‑old Brazil international, has been a peripheral figure under manager Xabi Alonso. He has logged only 23 minutes in the Premier League this season, although he started twice in the Carabao Cup for the Blues.

Why Everton could benefit

Nevin argues that Everton need a player to fill the “Ndiaye‑shaped gap” left after the Senegal international moved to Manchester City in the summer. He believes the Toffees would give Estevao more regular minutes, easing the pressure on the young winger.

In Nevin’s view, Chelsea cannot “slowly but surely build” a player like Estevao, describing the club as one where “you’re in, you’ve had a bad time, bang, out you go”. He adds that the Premier League may not be the ideal environment for the Brazilian’s development.

Despite speculation that the winger wants to leave, Chelsea are reportedly prepared to offer him a new contract to retain his services.

Pat Nevin told CasinoHawks: “I love Estevao to bits… He’s absolutely fantastic… He’s not the right type for the club Chelsea are.” He continued, “There’s a big Ndiaye‑shaped gap at Everton and I would love to see Estevao fill it.”

The former Blues and Toffees player also suggested that a move abroad could suit Estevao, naming Spain, France, PSG or even Germany as possible destinations, though he doubts Everton can afford the £51m price tag.

Nevertheless, Nevin maintains that Everton’s recent signings, such as Jack Grealish and Tyrique George, show a willingness to recruit from Chelsea, making the club a plausible landing spot for the winger.

In summary, the combination of limited playing time, a substantial transfer fee and Everton’s need for a replacement for Iliman Ndiaye fuels the debate over whether Estevao Willian should depart Chelsea in January.