The unlikely Chelsea star in line for next contract after Cole Palmer, as Clearlake stance revealed
Cole Palmer is the latest of a handful of key Chelsea players to have received a new contract in the last few months, but the next player in line to get a new deal is a bit of a surprise.
After deals for Moises Caicedo and Reece James during the Liam Rosenior era, and then contracts for Pedro Neto and Joao Pedro more recently, Palmer’s one-year extension was announced on Saturday.
The England star was previously contracted until 2033, but has put pen to paper on a new deal with improved terms as a reward for his form. Indeed, he put Chelsea first ahead of England during the break.
Now, Chelsea’s stance on a new deal for Estevao has emerged
Brazil wonderkid Estevao only joined Chelsea in the summer of 2025, and like Palmer, the winger has a long-term contract in place. But that does not seem to be the sticking point for new deals at Chelsea.
Estevao is yet to start a single game under Xabi Alonso in the Premier League, though he has started in both Carabao Cup games. Even in the League, he has been handed a few minutes at best, here and there.
How can Xabi Alonso get Estevao Willian into the side? 🤔
The Brazilian has seen very little action under his new manager…
Alonso’s 3-4-2-1 system does not incorporate natural wingers, and it has led to concern from Estevao’s camp that he might not get as much game time as he wants. Especially with no European action to play.
Despite his lack of game time, The Mail claims Chelsea are open to handing Estevao a new and improved deal as a reward for his patience. Chelsea see a future with Estevao even if his game time is limited.
Barcelona are monitoring Estevao’s situation at Chelsea
According to reports from Spain, Estevao’s situation is gaining admirers. Barcelona tried to sign Estevao from Palmeiras before Chelsea swooped in. Typically, he then scored his best goal against them last term.
Reports say Chelsea would want an eye-watering fee of £111m for Estevao if Barcelona were to intensify their interest. Should Estevao pursue an exit, other European heavyweights are sure to become interested.
But for now, patience is required, and it might be that Estevao signs on the dotted line, earning a bigger wage and an extension, with Clearlake ready to hand the teen star a pay rise, almost as an apology.
Estevao is not the only Chelsea player in line for a new deal, though. Levi Colwill has often been linked with signing a new deal, while reports say Josh Acheampong could also be offered new terms.
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