Arsenal have reportedly made an official approach to sign Real Madrid forward Endrick, although a move for the highly-rated Brazilian appears increasingly unlikely before the summer transfer window closes.
The Gunners are understood to have explored the possibility of bringing the 20-year-old striker to north London as they continue to assess attacking options. However, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly determined to keep hold of the youngster and has no intention of allowing him to leave the Spanish giants this summer.
Endrick remains regarded as one of the most exciting young forwards in world football. Real Madrid invested heavily in his potential when they secured his move from Palmeiras, and the club continue to view him as an important part of their long-term plans.
The striker spent last season on loan at Lyon, gaining valuable first-team experience away from Madrid. That spell was intended to help his development, but his future has nevertheless become the subject of transfer speculation as clubs across Europe monitor his situation.
Arsenal are not believed to be the only Premier League club to have explored a deal. Manchester United and Aston Villa reportedly showed interest earlier in the window, only to see their approaches rejected.
With Mourinho now apparently unwilling to sanction Endrick’s departure, Arsenal face a major obstacle in their pursuit. A deal would require Real Madrid to reconsider their position or Endrick himself to push for a move, neither of which currently appears likely.
The latest development comes after Arsenal also explored an ambitious move for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior. The Brazil international ultimately preferred to remain in Madrid, meaning the Gunners have suffered another setback in their attempts to recruit from the Spanish club.
For ARSENAL, the situation highlights the difficulty of trying to prise away elite young talent from Real Madrid. The Spanish giants have both the financial resources and sporting ambition to retain their best players.
Opinion: Arsenal may need to move on
While Endrick would be an exciting addition to Arsenal, the current circumstances suggest the Gunners may be better served looking elsewhere.
There is little point spending valuable time pursuing a player whose manager has made it clear he does not want him to leave. Arsenal need attacking reinforcements capable of contributing immediately, particularly with their ambitions of challenging for major honours.
Endrick’s potential is obvious, but his development is still ongoing. If Real Madrid want to keep him, ARSENAL should respect that position and focus their attention on alternatives.
Missing out on both Endrick and Vinicius will be disappointing, but Arsenal’s recruitment strategy should not depend on forcing deals that are unlikely to happen
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