'He's like Lamine Yamal' - Chelsea-bound Willian 'Messinho' Estevao compared to Barcelona star by Ronaldo Nazario - who predicts Brazilian will become 'very big star'

The Blues have secured an agreement for the young star in a deal reportedly worth £56 million ($73 million). He will join the London club in July 2025 from Palmeiras, shortly after he turns 18. In the 2024/25 season, Willian has performed consistently for the Brazilian giants. In October, he broke Neymar’s record for goal contributions by a 17-year-old in Brazil’s top flight, achieving 17 contributions compared to Neymar’s 16 in 2009 while at Santos.

As Chelsea wait to welcome the Brazilian wonderkid, former Real Madrid and Barcelona star and Brazil icon Ronaldo predicted that the 17-year-old has the potential to become a huge star in the future as he drew comparisons between the Palmeiras sensation and Blaugrana star Lamine Yamal.

Speaking to journalist Ben Jacobs, the ex-Selecao star said: "He's a young player and very talented. He's kind of like Lamine Yamal. He will soon be a very big star in football. He's very promising and at just 17. I think he'll play for Palmeiras at the Club World Cup then join Chelsea."

The teenager is currently in action for Palmeiras, who play their final game of the Brazilian Serie A season. Palmeiras will have to win the match by a margin of at least two goals and then hope Botafogo lose their final match against Sao Paulo in order to lift the league title.