Chelsea rejects loan offers for Estêvão as Maresca plans to use Brazilian prodigy
18-year-old winger, signed from Palmeiras, will stay in London to fight for his place in the squad
Chelsea has turned down multiple loan proposals for rising Brazilian star Estêvão, making it clear that the 18-year-old attacker is firmly in Enzo Maresca’s plans for the 2025/26 season.
According to reports from the international press, the Blues received interest from various clubs seeking a temporary deal, but all offers were immediately rejected. Maresca, who recently took over from Mauricio Pochettino, is said to be eager to work directly with the former Palmeiras talent.
Estêvão Staying to Compete for Minutes
Despite his young age and lack of European experience, Estêvão is expected to remain with the first team and compete for minutes. Club insiders highlight the Brazilian’s attacking flair, dribbling ability, and incisiveness in the final third attributes the current Chelsea squad is perceived to be lacking.
Chelsea views Estêvão as more than a long-term project. They believe he can contribute sooner than expected, even amid strong competition for attacking positions.
Intense Competition for Starting Role
While Estêvão may not start in Chelsea’s opening Premier League fixtures, he will challenge the likes of Pedro Neto and Cole Palmer—the current attacking duo supporting striker João Pedro. Palmer, in particular, is coming off a standout season and is already being tracked by Real Madrid.
Pedro Neto, newly arrived from Wolves, adds further depth to Maresca’s attacking options, meaning Estêvão may initially serve as a super-sub or rotational player, gaining minutes gradually.
The club’s likely starting XI for early-season matches, based on recent form and pre-season preparations, is as follows:
Sánchez; Gusto, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Reece James, Caicedo; Palmer, Enzo Fernández, Pedro Neto; João Pedro.
Estêvão is expected to be Chelsea’s first attacking option off the bench, especially in games where flair and creativity are needed late on.
