Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Barcelona star Lamine Yamal indirectly played a role in Chelsea securing the signing of highly touted talent Estevao Willian. Willian is set to join Chelsea in the summer of 2025 upon turning 18 years old.
This past summer, there was significant interest in Estevao, one of the most promising young players in Brazil’s Série A. Reports suggested that top European clubs, including Chelsea, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain, were eyeing the talented teenager. Despite Barcelona’s reputation for nurturing young players, Chelsea managed to secure a deal for Willian in June 2024, reportedly worth £56 million ($74.9 million).
Fabrizio Romano’s Insight on Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal Impact on Chelsea’s Signing of Estevao Willian
In his column for CaughtOffside, Romano explained how Yamal’s rapid rise to stardom influenced Barcelona’s decision not to pursue the Brazilian wonderkid.
Romano stated:
“Chelsea was among the clubs interested in Estevao, but all top European clubs were monitoring his situation closely. Barcelona had him on their radar, but they shifted their focus when Lamine Yamal showcased his exceptional talent.
“Chelsea believes they have secured a top player for the present and future, capable of playing as a right winger or a number 10.“
Considering the significant fee Chelsea paid for Willian, Barcelona’s decision not to pursue him seems justified. With Yamal impressing in every match, Barcelona can be content as other European clubs scramble for emerging talents.
Lamine Yamal’s Meteoric Rise
Over the last eighteen months, Yamal has established himself as a rising star in European football. At just 15 years old, he made his La Liga debut under Xavi during the 2022-23 season. The following year, he became a key player for Barcelona, featuring in 50 games across all competitions and contributing to 16 goals (seven goals, nine assists).
Yamal’s performances earned him a spot in Spain’s squad for the 2024 European Championship, where he excelled by scoring a goal and providing four assists as Spain lifted the EURO 2024 trophy, making him the youngest European champion in history.
This season, Yamal has been in sensational form, scoring four goals and registering five assists in seven matches across various competitions. With his continued success, Barcelona stands a good chance of silverware in the near future.
