Lionel Messi is the all-time great in the history of FC Barcelona. The impact that the Argentinian had on the Spanish club is so great that even till today, they are struggling to fill his void. While discovering the next Messi seems highly unlikely for now, they have found the closest thing to La Pulga. As per the reports, the Catalans have set their sights on ‘Messinho‘, hailing from the well-known soccer talent hotbed of Brazil.

Days after signing Victor Roque, it seems the La Liga side continues to plan on adding more young firepower to their ranks. Brazil, a land that has given birth to some of the most iconic global names, Estevao Willian, nicknamed Messinho, is on the radar of Barcelona. The 16-year-old Palmeiras star has similar attributes to Lionel Messi and is one of the sought-after talents in the market. 

Mundo Deportivo claims that Barca has been keeping an eye on Messinho for more than a year. Everyone at the club also seems to believe the teenager is destined to make a lasting impression in the years to come. Obviously, the question will be- can he make a big difference? Besides, Deco, the sports director, is also very impressed with Willian. Notably, he even made his debut for Palmeiras and even scored two goals. He has also impressed for the Brazil U17.

However, penning a deal with the young Brazilian won’t be easy for Barcelona. Elite sides, including Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and PSG are also interested in acquiring his services. Additionally, the Catalans are also in a precarious financial situation, and paying his $65 million release clause won’t be possible at once. Lucky for Barcelona, Willian only intends to don the Blaugrana’s red and blue jersey.

The next Lionel Messi only wants to don the Barcelona shirt 

Despite the interest from big clubs, Messinho is only adamant about signing for Barcelona. He even revealed his ambition to play at Camp Nou earlier in an interview in October. Additionally, his family and agent, Andre Cury, also believe that Barcelona is the best club for the teenager’s development. Hence, they must figure out a way to sign him.

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Notably, the reason the Catalans haven’t moved forward with their deal is because they are aware that Willian can’t arrive before the summer of 2025, once he turns 18 in April. Till then, they can carry forward with the negotiations and pay a small token amount to fend off the other team’s interest and the rest can be paid in when he flies to Spain. 

Do you think Estevao Willian is finally the end of Barcelona’s search for the next Messi? Let us know in the comments.

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