Chelsea transfer news: Second summer deal close as medical 'passed'

Chelsea are reportedly closing in on their second signing of the summer after the player in question passed a medical.

Co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital are embarking on another period of transfer activity after finishing in sixth place in the Premier League standings.

The managerial appointment of Enzo Maresca is largely irrelevant due to the club's recruitment team tasked with applying a certain strategy when it comes to acquiring new talent.

Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo has already been brought in on a free transfer, with that deal partly conducted due to the potential of making a profit through selling a centre-back already at Stamford Bridge.

However, Boehly and Clearlake have launched a sustained effort to make an impact in the South American market, already signing several prospects who they feel will make a first-team impact in the future.

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Andrey Santos looks the most likely to be used by newly-appointed head coach Maresca next season, and it appears that a Brazilian compatriot could soon be joining him in West London.

According to the Evening Standard, Palmeiras starlet Estevao Willian has successfully completed a medical ahead of a big-money move.

The report says that it was conducted in Brazil over the weekend with Chelsea now expected to finalise the transfer in due course.

Chelsea will reportedly be paying Palmeiras an initial fee of £29.5m, with the potential of it rising to £51m in the future.

Previous reports have indicated that Chelsea view the 17-year-old as someone who can have an immediate impact in the senior ranks during 2024-25.

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Is Willian likely to get much game time?

Despite only turning 17 years of age in April, Willian has already accumulated 21 appearances for Palmeiras, contributing three goals and three assists.

Those numbers have come across 906 minutes, only adding to the feeling that the teenager could become the latest prospect from the nation to become a world-class star.

However, Chelsea will most likely have to remain patient with his development; Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, Mykhaylo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling are are also currently vying for the places in the final third.

Chelsea also have a decision to make over the next stage of Angelo Gabriel's development. The Brazilian winger, who is 19, made 25 outings for Strasbourg in Ligue 1 last season and will now look to be stepped up in quality.