Agent Andre Cury has revealed a major factor that was considered before Estevao Willian agreed to leave Palmeiras for Chelsea.
In June, it was confirmed that the Brazilian starlet had signed a long-term contract to move to Stamford Bridge for a fee in the region of £55m.
FIFA regulations dictate that the teenager cannot formally complete a move until his 18th birthday and Estevao will become a Chelsea player in July.
Up until now, Estevao has been creating history for Palmeiras, contributing 20 goals and 10 assists from his 59 appearances in all competitions from a wide position.
However, Cury has revealed that the promise of a change in position helped Chelsea seal a deal for one of the most highly-regarded South American prospects in recent memory.
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'Chelsea were the only club that...
Speaking to GE.Globo, Cury has claimed that Estevao's and Chelsea's opinion on his future position are the same with both showing preference for the number 10 role.
Cury said: "It was the only club that saw us as number 10, to play in midfield. I may be wrong, but we will have the opportunity.
"I think we will be right, so that was also something that weighed heavily. In my opinion, in my team he plays as a 10. They like to put him on the wing. I think it's too narrow for a player of that quality.
"I think that...like all players of that quality in the world, he's usually the number 10, so the number 10 plays inside."
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Ramifications for Chelsea stars?
As it stands, Cole Palmer is the standout option for the number 10 role in Enzo Maresca's squad and that is unlikely to change anytime soon.
Maresca also faces the prospect of integrating Kendry Paez into his squad in the summer, the Ecuadorian teenager also a central creative player.
Providing that Estevao and Paez remain with the senior squad as expected in 2025-26, players such as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Joao Felix may ultimately be phased out.
Felix is currently on loan at AC Milan, yet there is currently every sign that the Portugal international will not be remaining at San Siro on a permanent basis.
Darren Plant
