Real Madrid admit ‘regret’ in decision to allow Chelsea to sign ‘football genius’

Should Estevao meet a series of performance-related milestones — which seems probable at this point — Chelsea will owe an additional £21m to the Brazilian side in bonuses.

Already seen as one of the brightest young talents in global football, Willian — who earned 11 international caps before turning 19 — has drawn comparisons to Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar.

Estevao has started just seven matches for Chelsea, with Maresca understandably managing his minutes carefully, yet the teenager has already shown flashes that have thrilled supporters and analysts.

According to ESPN Brasil, Estevao has surpassed expectations at Stamford Bridge and convinced decision-makers he will become ‘one of the ten best players in the world’ by 2029.

Reports suggest Chelsea have been ‘impressed’ by his ‘maturity’, ‘focus’ and ‘discipline’, noting how quickly he has adapted to life in west London and embraced Maresca’s tactical demands.

Estevao’s strong start has also made waves in Spain, with Real Madrid reportedly ‘regretting’ their choice not to pursue him.

Los Blancos are believed to have ‘analysed’ Estevao during his Palmeiras days but ultimately chose not to proceed — a decision now under reconsideration.

During the November international break, Estevao found the net in both of Brazil’s friendlies, bringing his tally to five goals in 11 appearances for the national team.

After scoring in Brazil’s 1-1 draw with Tunisia on Tuesday, Estevao was described as a ‘football genius’ and a future Ballon d’Or contender.

‘I think Estevao is a new football genius emerging,’ Tunisia boss Sami Trabelsi said.

‘If he manages to have good performances or win titles, with his club or his country, he will be among the players who in the coming years could even compete for the Ballon d’Or.’

Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin also offered glowing praise, calling Estevao ‘exceptional’ and possibly the ‘most enjoyable player to watch’ in the Premier League.

‘Estevao really is exceptional,’ Nevin told BBC Sport. ‘Only a tiny number of players can produce this particular special effect.

‘If you get a chance whether at Stamford Bridge, or while watching a game on TV, close your eyes and listen to the sound of the crowd when Estevao gets the ball in the final third.

‘It is the purified sound of expectation, excitement and support from an entire stadium. Very few can make that happen just by getting the ball.

‌’It is probably best to shut your eyes when watching it back on record as you might just miss yet another incredibly imaginative piece of brilliance from the wonderkid if you try this approach live.

‌’He was at it again for Brazil during the international break. I’d pay to watch him warm up and while he might not be the best player in the Premier League, he may well be the most enjoyable to watch.’

Assuming he remains fit and in form, Estevao is expected to be part of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for next summer’s World Cup.

Before then, the rising star will aim to help Chelsea build on last season’s success, which included a Conference League title and a Club World Cup victory.

Maresca’s team climbed to third in the Premier League before the international pause and resume their campaign on Saturday against Burnley.

Following that, Chelsea face two major tests — a Champions League clash with Barcelona and a Premier League showdown against title contenders and London rivals Arsenal.