Barcelona’s financial troubles might cost them Brazil’s next big talent.
Estevao Willian, also known as ‘Messinho’, stands out as one of the emerging talents in Brazilian football. The Palmeiras striker, who, at the age of 16, made his debut on December 6, coinciding with his team’s Brasileirao championship triumph, finds his dream move to Barcelona slipping away.
According to Mundo Deportivo journalist Roger Torello, despite expressing his desire to play for Barça in a previous interview with Mundo Deportivo, economic constraints are currently preventing the club from taking any decisive steps, prompting Messinho to reconsider his future.
Facing mounting pressure from powerhouse teams such as PSG, Chelsea, United, and City, all ready to meet his €60 million release clause, Palmeiras is urging the player to make a decision.
Although Messinho doesn’t turn 17 until April 24, 2024, meaning he couldn’t move to Europe until the summer of 2025, Palmeiras is eager to finalize his sale now, following a strategy similar to Endrick’s transfer to Real Madrid, where he remained with the Brazilian club until adulthood allowed him to make the move to Europe.
The player’s father, who has a strong affinity for Barcelona, had the opportunity to explore potential destinations during a trip to Europe last October. Visiting Manchester City in Manchester, Chelsea in London, PSG in Paris, and concluding the journey in Barcelona, the Barça option appealed most to him, mirroring his son’s preferences.
However, the lingering indecision at FC Barcelona is increasingly complicating the prospect of securing Messinho’s signing.
