sport news Chelsea 'plot £47m swoop for Brazilian wonderkid, 17, dubbed "Messinho"' - ... trends now

Chelsea are reportedly planning a £47million bid for a Brazilian wonderkid. 

Estevao Willian, 17, has gained the nickname 'Messinho' for his performances on the wing after coming through the academy of Palmeiras. 

The Blues are set to bid £25.5m with possible add-ons reaching £21m for the youngster, having already had two advances snubbed. 

It's a similar situation to Real Madrid paying £52m for Endrick because Willian comes from the same club and is just 12 games deep into his professional career. 

Chelsea are 'strongly' in the race for him but face competition from a litany of top admirers, according to Brazilian outlet UOL. 

'Messinho', or 'Little Messi', is his nickname because some even compared him to Lionel Messi.  

He already has 547,000 Instagram followers, testament to his burgeoning popularity in his homeland, and posts solely about football. 

Aged just 10, he became the youngest-ever Brazilian player to secure a deal with Nike, even ahead of Neymar and Rodrygo. 

He has managed two goals and an assist during his 12 games. It has been a quick progression for Willian, who made his debut last year and has a contract lasting until 2026. 

At least he comes with title-winning experience, having

read more from dailymail.....