Chelsea have reportedly made contact with Palmeiras as they attempt to gain an early advantage in the race to sign Brazilian teenager Eduardo Conceicao.
The 16-year-old forward has attracted attention from several leading European clubs, but Chelsea are understood to be among the first to establish direct contact with Palmeiras over a potential future transfer.
According to Mark Brus of CaughtOffside, the London club have held a series of discussions as they seek to position themselves ahead of their rivals.
Chelsea looking to build on Estevao deal
Palmeiras are reportedly preparing for substantial offers, with some figures at the Brazilian club discussing a valuation as high as €100m (£85m).
That figure has not been established as a firm asking price, however, and Brus reports that industry sources expect the eventual cost to be lower. Chelsea’s previous investment of approximately £51m in Estevao is regarded as a possible benchmark.
Manchester City’s ownership group have also made contact regarding Conceicao, while Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are among the clubs reported to have watched him.
Chelsea’s existing relationship with Palmeiras could help their efforts, although the level of competition means there is no guarantee that their early interest will lead to a deal.
The player’s age is another consideration. Conceicao cannot complete an international transfer to England until he turns 18, leaving interested clubs facing a potentially lengthy wait before he can join their squads.
Chelsea have already demonstrated their willingness to agree deals for young players well before they are eligible to arrive, with Estevao providing a particularly relevant example.
No formal bid or agreement has been reported for Conceicao. Nevertheless, the latest claims suggest Chelsea are prepared to explore another long-term investment in Brazilian talent rather than wait until the player becomes available for an immediate move.
