Barcelona are monitoring Estevao Willian's situation at Chelsea, according to Spanish newspaper Diario Sport, which reports that the winger is frustrated by his limited role under manager Xabi Alonso.
The 19-year-old has played just 23 minutes in the Premier League this season. The report has prompted speculation over Estevao's future at Chelsea. Sport describes the situation as a ‘cold war’ between the player and manager.
Neither Chelsea nor Estevao has commented publicly on the claims. Sport also reports that Estevao wants to move from the right wing into a more central role, currently occupied by Cole Palmer.
The newspaper also reports that he is reluctant to add more muscle because of concerns it could affect his pace and agility. However, Sport reports that neither Estevao nor his representatives are considering a move away from Chelsea.
The newspaper has not reported any approach from Barcelona.
How Many Minutes Has Estevao Played Under Xabi Alonso?
Estevao has featured in four of Chelsea's five Premier League games, each time as a substitute. The Daily Mail reports he came on in the 83rd, 81st, 86th, and 87th minutes. He was an unused substitute in the other match.
Estevao came on for Jamie Gittens against Arsenal and forced a save from David Raya. After the match, Alonso said the winger "had a very good impact". Chelsea lost 2-1.
His latest appearance came against Brentford, when he replaced Pedro Neto with Chelsea trailing 2-0. Chelsea went on to lose 3-0.
Estevao's only starts have come in the Carabao Cup, against Luton and Leeds. Alonso substituted him at half-time against Leeds, with Chelsea going on to win 6-3.
Estevao scored eight goals in 36 appearances in all competitions during his first season at Chelsea, which was primarily played under Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. Alonso took over on 1 July on a four-year contract, so this is the first campaign in which he has managed Estevao.
Alonso has mostly relied on Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer and summer signing Morgan Rogers in attack. ESPN reports that the trio have scored 10 goals between them this season.
Chelsea also have no European football this season, potentially leaving fewer opportunities for rotation. Estevao has only recently returned to full fitness after the injury that ended his previous season and ruled him out of Brazil's World Cup squad.
Estevao addressed the reports while on international duty with Brazil. "We work every day, I give my best every day," he told reporters, adding that he is focused on what he can control.
Alonso discussed Estevao's role in September. He said the winger was training well, was fully involved and could have a big impact, adding that "the season is going to be long". Alonso also declined to discuss private conversations with the player.
Why Are Barcelona Monitoring Estevao at Chelsea?
Barcelona tracked Estevao during his time at Palmeiras but did not make a serious move for him. Sporting director Deco said in January that the club already had "a player for the same position" in Lamine Yamal, while its priorities and financial situation were elsewhere.
Sport now reports that Deco has first-hand information about Estevao's situation and that Barcelona are monitoring the winger closely.
A potential move would also have to fit Barcelona's financial position. In September, economic vice-president Ferran Olive told Cadena SER that the club would need to sell players to fund further signings in January.
No reports suggest Chelsea are considering a sale, with Fabrizio Romano saying in September that the club is calm about the situation and has no plans to sell.
That position is also reflected in reports about Estevao himself. Sources close to the player told the Daily Mail in late September that he is not disillusioned and expects more opportunities.
The newspaper also reported surprise in Brazil at his limited playing time, with one source saying, "Xabi appears not to love him."
What Happens Next for Estevao at Chelsea?
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has said the interests of the national team and a player's club do not always align. He also said he will continue selecting Estevao even if the winger does not play for Chelsea.
Estevao started Brazil's 1-1 draw with Australia after missing the previous nine matches through injury. He had a goal ruled out following a VAR review. Brazil face Australia again on 29 September before playing India on 3 October.
Chelsea return to league action at home to Bournemouth on 10 October, beginning a run of five fixtures in three weeks. The schedule could provide more opportunities for Estevao to feature.
