Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra
Arsenal are plotting a blockbuster move to sign Real Madrid forward Endrick before the end of the transfer window, with Mikel Arteta determined to strengthen his attacking line.
The Gunners looked raring to go when they put three past Coventry under the lights at the Emirates Stadium last Friday night. Arteta has Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz as options through the middle, with the versatile Mikel Merino another possibility, but Arsenal have been linked with a marquee attacking arrival throughout the summer.
Initially, the North London outfit had been keen to bring Real Madrid man Vinicius Junior to the Premier League, but attention is now reportedly focused on Endrick.
Arsenal bid for Real Madrid forward Endrick
REUTERS/Mike Segar
talkSPORT report that Arsenal have held talks with Real Madrid over a move for the 20-year-old, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Lyon last season.
Jose Mourinho has insisted that Endrick is not for sale this summer, but the Gunners are said to be testing that resolve. An official approach has now been sent to the Galacticos.
The Endrick approach comes at the same time as Arsenal monitor a potential move for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. The Argentine is a top target, but has so far not been keen on a return to the Premier League, prioritising a transfer to Barcelona - although Atletico are unwilling to grant that wish.
The Gunners are working hard on putting an agreement in place for Endrick in the background. Speaking about the striker earlier this week, Mourinho said: "He's a player I like a lot and who has had many contacts from clubs that wanted him on loan or transferred.
Endrick is yet to feature for Real Madrid this season, but that is due to a hamstring issue rather than protection from transfer speculation. The Brazilian last played for Madrid in a Copa del Rey match against CF Talavera in December 2025.
Real Madrid sent the youngster on loan to Lyon for the second half of last season, and the forward managed eight goals and eight assists for the Ligue 1 side, including a memorable hat trick against FC Metz.
Arsenal attacking targets this summer -
Morgan Rogers -joined Chelsea for £117m
Vinicius Jr - Real Madrid refuse to sell despite £100m+ interest
Julian Alvarez - Player has heart set on Barcelona transfer
Endrick - Negotiations underway with Real Madrid
Real Madrid paid an initial £30 million to sign Endrick from Palmeiras as a teenager, with extensive additional payment clauses included in a deal that was reported to total upwards of £50 million.
After plundering five goals in his first five Lyon matches last season, Endrick earned comparisons with Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema, who also spent time with the French side early in his career.
When asked about being the next Benzema, Endrick replied: It's very good for me because he's a great player, an incredible player, who was the best in the world.
"But Karim is light-years ahead of me. I hope he does well at Al Hilal. I'm very happy to be here, where Karim played."