Chelsea's 19-year-old forward Estevao has been linked with a surprise move to Liverpool after former Reds striker Emile Heskey urged the Anfield club to sign him. The Brazilian youngster has made only 134 minutes of Premier League football this season, despite making his first start in the 2-0 win over Manchester United last week. That victory, secured by goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, was part of a recent run of three wins and a draw from their last five league matches. His recent form includes a goal contribution every 67 minutes, a rate that has caught the eye despite his limited playing time.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has praised the player's attitude in training. "Este, his training and his attitude has been good," Alonso said recently.
"You look at what he would bring, his drive on the ball and everything. He’s a very tidy player." The former England international argued that the teenager's direct style and hunger to shoot are qualities Liverpool currently lack.
Estevao's limited involvement comes as Chelsea sit fourth in the Premier League with 16 points from nine games, a record of five wins, one draw and three losses. They are eight points behind leaders Arsenal. The team's next fixture is an away trip to bottom-placed Sunderland on Sunday 8 November as they look to consolidate their top-four position. Key attacker João Pedro, the club's top scorer with five goals this season, is expected to return from injury after the international break, which could further complicate Estevao's path to more minutes. The team's overall form, which includes a 1-1 draw with Liverpool and a 2-0 loss to Tottenham prior to the win over United, shows a need for consistent attacking options.
Alonso acknowledged the challenge of keeping all his forwards happy. "It's no secret that all players want to be on the pitch," he said. "When any of them haven’t had enough minutes because of my decision, I have to take the responsibility for that." Chelsea's full fixtures list shows a busy schedule ahead, increasing the need for squad depth. Heskey's comments highlight the growing speculation around the young forward's future, suggesting a potential high-profile transfer battle could be on the horizon if his situation at Stamford Bridge does not change.
This story first appeared at liverpoolfc.com
