Chelsea have secured the services of yet another Brazilian youngster with the addition of Corinthians left back Denner Evangelista. According to reports from multiple sources, including Forbes, the Blues have agreed on a fee of €10 million plus a potential €4 million in add-ons depending on how he does in the future.
To add another layer of complexity to things, there is also a 15% sell on clause if Chelsea chooses to cash in on the youngster in the future. Because he is still only 17 years old, Denner will not join the Blues officially until he becomes an adult but this is a typical arrangement for up and coming youth players in Brazil.
Chelsea have delved into this business as well with several other young Brazilians like Angel Gabriel, Andrey Santos, Estevao Willian, and Deivid Washington who are all part of Chelsea’s future plans. Denner is the latest addition and is just as talented as the rest, having already made an appearance for Brazil U-17 national team.
Officially listed as a left-backby Corinthians, that is subject to change considering he has yet to make an appearance for the senior team and they could slot him into the lineup elsewhere. This is not unusual for young players as they may play one position at the youth level before switching when they get to the senior ranks.
Denner was a hot prospect that was reportedly “wanted by half of Europe” as cited by Forbes and Barcelona were especially interested in his services. They have been a pipeline of premier Brazilian talent as have their rivals Real Madrid so any player wanted by either club is likely special.
To be completely realistic, it is unlikely that all of these young players bought by Chelsea will succeed with the first team but they could also be great for business in the future. Even if they don’t pan out on the field, the Blues could cash in on them by selling them on to other clubs for a profit. We are of course hoping that Denner becomes the next Marcelo or Roberto Carlos and that this bit of business becomes a steal for Chelsea.