“How can they keep spending?”, “FFP not apply to them” - Rival fans raise concern as Chelsea reach agreement to sign forward
Fans of several English clubs were left fuming after Chelsea reached an agreement with Brazilian outfit Palmeiras for the transfer of Estevao Willian. The Blues have a verbal agreement in place with his club, and have sorted out personal terms with the youngster, who will join in 2025.
Palmeiras teenager Willian has been on the radar of several clubs in Europe since he was 15, with PSG bidding €85 million for him and Endrick in 2022. Barcelona were also interested in the youngster, whose heart seemed set on a move to Spain if he left Brazil.
However, the financial situation of the Spanish giants left the Blues as his most likely destination, and they swooped in quickly this year. They reached an agreement with him on personal terms earlier this month, and proceeded to engage his club in talks.
Sky Sports have reported that a deal has been agreed between Chelsea and Palmeiras for the transfer of the 17-year-old, sparking reactions from rival fans. They took to X to raise objections about the Blues' spending, particularly as they have spent over £1 billion since 2022.
"How can they keep spending ????" a fan said.
"FFP not apply to them,” another chimed in.
“How can they keep spending this much money!?" said another.
"When ffp means nothing," a fan said.
"Where is FFP? @premierleague," a disgruntled fan asked.
"The Same Chelsea that have been told they need to raise over 100 million to escape FFP by 15th June,” a fan pointed out.
"Chelsea spending another billion cos they can do what they like," another said.
The Blues will pay an initial £29.1 million for the talented 17-year-old, who will join them once he turns 18 in 2025. Add-ons related to his performance for both Palmeiras and the English side could take the total fee to around £55 million.
Chelsea set to include Estevao Willian in first-team setup upon arrival
Chelsea will have Brazilian youngster Estevao Willian in their first-team setup once he arrives at the club in 2025. The Palmeiras wonderkid will move to London when he turns 18, and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that the Blues have decided against sending him out on loan.
Willian will arrive at Stamford Bridge around the same time as Ecuadorian youngster Kendry Paez, giving the Blues two of South America's finest talents. Both players could have the opportunity to show their worth in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which is set to take place in the summer of 2025.
Chelsea spent more to sign Estevao Willian than Barcelona spent on Neymar or Real Madrid spent on Vinicius Jr, making him one of the most expensive Brazilian exports ever. The youngster has generated a lot of excitement among the Blues fans, who have endured a disappointing season.