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Chelsea are reportedly close to finalizing a €65 million deal for Brazilian starlet Estevao Willian. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the move is set to become official in this week, with the Blues also covering the taxes of the deal.
Fabrizio Romano reported earlier that the deal will involve a payment of €40 million upfront with the remaining €25 million to be paid out in performance-related add-ons. He is expected to join the London side in 2025.
Earning the nickname 'Messinho' for his splendid dribbling and ability on the ball, Willian has emerged as one of the hottest prospects in South America. He has shone for Brasileiro Serie A side Palmeiras alongside teammate Endrick, who has already earned a move to Real Madrid.
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Barcelona were also interested in the player but Chelsea were quick to complete negotiations for the attacker. The move is not the first time they have dipped into the South American market, having already signed Andrey Santos, Deivid Washington and Kendry Paez under the new ownership.
Mauricio Pochettino issues update on Chelsea future
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino opened up on a dinner he had with club owner Todd Boehly ahead of the side's 2-1 win over Bournemouth. The Argentine provided some cagey remarks on his future at Stamford Bridge.
He said (via press conference):
"I don't know if that is going to happen or not. I don't have any idea about this. All I can tell you is on Friday night, Todd invited me for a dinner and it was a very nice dinner together.
"But I don't know about the rumours about the review. My staff tomorrow are flying for their holidays. I am going to stay in London for a few more days. I am always open. My phone is going to be on.
"I am not going to explain. It is only for you to know that I was with him. I'm not going to talk about this. If I invite you along, and you and me have dinner, it's not for bad things. I don't believe that."
After a disappointing start to the season where the Blues found themselves in the bottom half of the table, speculation was rife about Pochettino's future at the club. However, a strong finish including five wins on the trot to finish the season has endeared the ex-Spurs boss to Blues fans.
Chelsea ended up finishing sixth in the league, securing European qualification. Having also reached the Carabao Cup finals and FA Cup semis, one could look back at this season as a positive after their difficult start.
