Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Palmeiras youngster Estevao Willian.
For a number of weeks, it has been suggested that a big-money deal has been in the offing, with the Blues acting to fend off any rival competition.
Being 17 years of age, FIFA regulations prevent Willian from making the switch from Brazil to the Premier League until next summer.
However, Chelsea have pulled off a coup to wrap up the acquisition of the teenager, who will allegedly cost in the region of £56m.
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'One of the most exciting talents'
Commenting on the signing on their official website, Chelsea describe Willian as having 'already built a strong reputation in South America as one of the most exciting talents around due to his skilful dribbling and electric pace, causing defences plenty of problems in his breakout season in senior football.'
Despite his age, Willian has already accumulated 23 senior outings for Palmeiras, an impressive feat given their standing in Brazil.
A return of four goals and three assists is not necessarily that notable, yet it is his most recent contributions that serve encouragement to Chelsea fans.
Willian has starred in Palmeiras' last three fixtures, first providing two assists in the 2-0 victory over Vasco da Gama.
In the 4-0 win at Athletico Mineiro, the starlet got on the scoresheet, before he featured for 85 minutes in the 2-1 success over Red Bull Bragantino on Friday.
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Where do Chelsea stand on wonderkids?
Willian will join Ecuadorian talent Kendry Paez in making the switch to Stamford Bridge next summer, the current plan being for both players to stay in the first team.
As Chelsea noted when announcing Willian's arrival, the likes of Andrey Santos, Angelo Gabriel and Deivid Washington are already present at the club.
Furthermore, reports have indicated that Boca Juniors defender Aaron Anselmino could soon be signing for Chelsea, before being loaned out to Strasbourg.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa's Omari Kellyman is also said to be on the brink of signing in a surprise £19m deal.
Darren Plant
