The 19-year-old arrived at Stamford Bridge with significant expectations but has found it difficult to establish himself during his second season in England. Before Saturday's meeting with Manchester United, Estevao had accumulated just 172 minutes across eight appearances in the Premier League and Carabao Cup, without registering a goal or assist.
His situation attracted further attention after he was left unused during Chelsea's Carabao Cup elimination against Liverpool, despite spending time warming up on the touchline.
Barcelona have been monitoring developments, with sporting director Deco particularly appreciative of the Brazilian's ability. The Catalan club are understood to remain interested in his circumstances, although Chelsea have given no indication that they are prepared to consider a departure.
Xabi Alonso addressed the situation before the Manchester United fixture, acknowledging that the forward would naturally be frustrated by his limited involvement.
“Yes, of course he will play. The season is long and there will be moments for everyone,” the Chelsea manager explained.
“It's no secret that all players want to be on the pitch, they want to play, and when one of them hasn't had enough minutes because of my decision, I have to accept responsibility for them not being as happy as they could be.”
Alonso was also keen to dismiss suggestions that Estevao's lack of opportunities reflected any concerns about his attitude or application.
“It's not a question of attitude. It has been about the context of the matches, about the beginning of the season. He is a great lad and has a great desire to adapt.”
The Chelsea manager also rejected suggestions that the club were discussing a January loan move.
“No, there are no conversations about that.”
However, Saturday's 2-0 victory over Manchester United provided an encouraging development for Estevao. The Brazilian was handed his first Premier League start of the campaign and showed flashes of the quality that made him such an exciting signing.
He found the net twice, only for both efforts to be ruled out for offside, with the second requiring a particularly tight VAR decision.
His performance also attracted praise from Cole Palmer, who believes the teenager demonstrated why patience with his development is worthwhile.
“He needed to be patient for his moment and he got his moment today,” Palmer said. “You could see in moments he was very good.
“He was unlucky with the offside; I think it was literally a centimetre. But we know the talent he's got and we all love him. So hopefully he can continue like that.”
For Barcelona, Estevao's situation remains worth monitoring. Chelsea have made clear that they expect him to feature more prominently, but the youngster's recent lack of opportunities had already created uncertainty over how quickly he can establish himself in Alonso's plans.