Estevao Willian has revealed which shirt number he would most like to wear when he joins Chelsea in 2025.
The 17-year-old Brazilian full international will join the Blues’ squad next July, upon his 18th birthday, from Brazilian top-flight club Palmeiras.
Chelsea signed him in June for a deal which, including add-ons, could be worth more than £50million.
Speaking to ESPN Brasil, Estevao said he would like to wear the same number at Chelsea that he currently dons for Palmeiras.
“I don't have [a preference], but I really like [wearing] 41. If I have 41 that would be cool,” he said.
“I've always been a No10 and I went to the wing to have one-on-ones. Of course, I respect Abel's [Ferreira, the Palmeiras manager] decision, I know that I've enjoyed it more on the wing, but who knows, maybe in the future I'll play where I feel more comfortable, which is inside.”
Estevao also revealed a conversation with former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva, now at Palmeiras’ Brazilian rivals Fluminense, where the 40-year-old told the teenager what to expect from life at Stamford Bridge.
“There are Chelsea agents here in Brazil who speak to you,” Estevao explained. “[Cole] Palmer speaks to me on Instagram , there's [Reece] James who said that if I needed anything I should speak to him.
“Thiago Silva spoke to me in that last game. He said that the club is top and they are waiting for me with open arms.”
