Barcelona scout next Gabriel Martinelli to beat Arsenal and Chelsea to deal

Barcelona are prepared to battle both Arsenal and Chelsea to sign Brazilian prospect Estevao Willian. The 16-year-old has been described as one of the most talented prospects in South America after his performances for Palmeiras.

Both the Gunners and the Blues have been linked with a move for the wonderkid, who has already been dubbed ‘Messinho’. Estevao was a regular for Brazil during the U17 World Cup in November and has followed this up with stellar displays at the latest edition of Coopinha.

The U20 tournament in Brazil was lit up by the teenager, who scored four goals and registered two assists in five games… Reports in Spain have claimed that both Arsenal and Chelsea are among those watching Estevao’s progress with Palmeiras — but Barcelona believe they hold a key advantage.

A move to the Premier League would represent a similar coup as to when Edu masterminded the signing of Gabriel Martinelli to Arsenal for £500,000 before his rapid rise in the first team under Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal told why Goncalo Ramos loan move should be avoided as Edu transfer priority clear

Who is Estevao Willian? Chelsea linked with 16-year-old wonderkid nicknamed 'Messinho'

A report from Football Espana has claimed that Chelsea travelled to Brazil for Copinha and held ‘talks’ over a move for Estevao. The Blues were said to be one of the two clubs ‘leading the race’ to sign the youngster, alongside Barcelona.

However, Mundo Deportivo has insisted that the Catalan club are ‘determined’ to get a deal done, having also scouted him in Sao Paolo. Arsenal are mentioned as one of five teams that are ‘willing to bid’ for Estevao but it is said that Barcelona’s hierarchy have already greenlit a move for the Palmeiras prospect.

Despite being rivalled