Who is Messinho: 16-year-old Brazilian prodigy who Arsenal ‘bidding hard’ for
Arsenal is currently in fierce competition with prominent European clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City to secure the signing of 16-year-old Brazilian sensation Estevao Willian, popularly known as Messinho.
A recent report from Spain indicates that Arsenal, along with several other top clubs, is actively vying for the talented player’s signature.
The competition has intensified with the renewed interest from Barcelona, adding another dimension to the already heated race for Messinho.
Hailing from Palmeiras, Messinho, often compared to Lionel Messi, has been making significant waves in the football scene in Brazil.
His standout performances have not only captured the attention of the local audience but have also garnered interest from major European clubs.
Having extensively scouted the player and maintained close ties with his entourage, Arsenal finds itself deeply involved in the battle to secure Messinho’s services.
Despite the intense competition for the young Brazilian talent, Barcelona has emerged as a formidable contender in the race to sign Messinho. The Catalan giants have been closely monitoring the player for over a year and have a high regard for his potential, particularly appreciated by their sporting director, Deco.
Barcelona’s keen interest became evident when Messinho and his father were recently given a tour of the club’s facilities, and the player reportedly indicated a preference for a move to the Nou Camp. However, the current financial constraints faced by Barcelona and FIFA regulations, which restrict the player’s move to Europe until he turns 18 in April 2025, have posed challenges in finalizing the deal.
Despite these obstacles, Barcelona and Messinho’s camp, including his agent André Cury, are actively working together to facilitate a future move. They aim to negotiate a deal with Palmeiras that involves a small initial payment and the majority of the transfer fee being paid in 2025.
Palmeiras is willing to respect Messinho’s decision to join Barcelona but requires formal negotiations to proceed. The Brazilian club is aware of the interest from top Premier League clubs and is open to considering their offers. The only potential obstacle to Barcelona’s plans could be an extravagant offer from another club that might influence Palmeiras.
Mundo Deportivo’s Sunday edition emphasized the intense competition for Messinho, highlighting the interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal. The ongoing developments in this transfer saga, with strong bids from Arsenal and other Premier League rivals, add to the excitement of this highly sought-after prospect.
Who is Messinho: 16-year-old Brazilian prodigy who Arsenal ‘bidding hard’ for