Contact is established between Arsenal and Palmeiras star Estevao Willian.

According to Brazilian daily UOL, Arsenal has initiated discussions with Estevao Willian, a young player from Palmeiras, over a possible transfer to North London.

by Akpan MaxAccessed May 5, 2024 via Twitter @Estevao Willian

According to Brazilian daily UOL, Arsenal has initiated discussions with Estevao Willian, a young player from Palmeiras, over a possible transfer to North London.

The 17-year-old, known by his nickname “Messinho,” is creating a name for himself in Abel Ferreira’s team. He has made four appearances and scored one goal, making him the second youngest goal scorer in Palmeiras history.

Arsenal scouts have noticed Willian’s potential, and according to UOL, the Gunners have now been in touch with the player’s management in an attempt to entice him to North London.

However, the source claims that Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, and Manchester City are also expressing a strong interest in signing the Brazilian, so the Gunners will have fierce competition for his services.

Willian’s contract at Allianz Parque is scheduled to expire in the summer of 2026, but Palmeiras is hanging onto a £38 million [€45 million] release clause. It is unclear if Arsenal will be willing to pay that amount to get the young talent.

Since making waves at the Indonesian-hosted 2023 U17 World Championship by scoring three goals in five games, Brazilian prospect Estevao Willian has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Several elite European clubs have taken notice of his performances, and Arsenal is hoping to add the young player to their increasing roster of talented Brazilians who will be playing at the Emirates Stadium.

Since coming to north London, artists like Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Margalhães have had a big influence.

While Jesus and Gabriel moved from European teams, Lille and Man City, Martinelli came straight from Brazilian Serie B team Ituano to the Gunners in 2019 and has since established himself as one of the League’s top wingers.

With so many Brazilians in Mikel Arteta’s team, Arsenal may have a small advantage when they recruit Willian, who will have plenty of company and drive to adapt rapidly.

The Gunners are vying for their first League crown since 2004 and will be looking to carry on their strong play against the “big six” when they visit Old Trafford to play Manchester United on Saturday of next week.