Chelsea are firmly committed to keeping Estevao, as they regard the 19-year-old Brazilian as integral to their future ambitions. Reports by BBC's Nizar Kinsella reveal that discussions about a new contract for the winger are already underway.
The start of the season has seen Estevao's playing time significantly limited, with just 96 minutes on the pitch so far. Most of these minutes came in a League Cup match against Luton Town, where he played for 80 minutes, while he featured for 16 minutes off the bench against Fulham and Arsenal, with a seat on the bench for the Brighton match.
Competition has notably intensified in Chelsea's attacking line following the record signing of Morgan Rogers for £117 million. Manager Xabi Alonso has also been regularly deploying Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro in attacking roles.
This surge in competition has led to reports in Brazil suggesting that Estevao is unhappy with the lack of playing time. However, BBC sources indicate that both Chelsea insiders and Estevao's camp have dismissed this speculation. In fact, his representatives view the club's summer signings, including Rogers, in a positive light.
Estevao is part of a select group of players viewed as untouchable at Chelsea, joining the likes of Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, and Moises Caicedo. The club has no plans to offload any of these players, with Estevao firmly integrated into Alonso's long-term plans.
Furthermore, Chelsea are intent on improving the contracts of their key players in the coming months, having already extended Joao Pedro's deal.
Xabi Alonso himself recently refuted claims regarding any discontent from the player.
Importantly, Chelsea are mindful of Estevao's recovery following a serious hamstring injury sustained at the end of last season, which caused him to miss the World Cup. Thus, his playing load is expected to be gradually increased.
In the closing stages of the match against Arsenal, Estevao replaced Pedro Neto and nearly salvaged a point for Chelsea, but his effort was thwarted by David Raya. BBC notes that Estevao's deployment in a wing-back role during this game was a necessity for chasing the game, and isn't likely to become a regular part for him.
Primarily, Estevao's preferred position is as a right winger, although this role is currently filled by Palmer. They have played together in a formation featuring four defenders, but Alonso has only opted for this setup in the cup match against Luton.
The absence of European fixtures has heightened the competition for playing time. Giovani Kenda and Jamie Gittens have only seen limited minutes in the four matches so far, while Emmanuel Emeka is yet to make his debut. Valentin Barco has managed just one start and one substitute appearance.
With a fully fit squad, Alonso would be forced to leave six outfield players out of the matchday squad. Therefore, extended appearances in the League Cup could prove particularly vital for Estevao and others striving for regular game time.
