Arsenal reportedly join Aston Villa in race for Real Madrid forward
Arsenal are reportedly weighing up a move for Endrick, the Real Madrid forward who has struggled for regular minutes since his move to the Bernabeu. The Brazilian's lack of opportunities in Spain has reportedly opened the door for a possible departure, with Arsenal said to be monitoring his situation closely.
According to Sport Witness, Arsenal are entering the race for the teenager after Aston Villa spent several months working on a potential deal. Unai Emery's side are said to have been in pursuit of Endrick for some time, believing he could add depth and quality to their attacking options.
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Villa's long standing interest
Villa have reportedly been trying to convince both Real Madrid and the player himself that a move to the Premier League would suit his development. Emery's side have built a reputation for giving young, talented players regular football, which could make them an attractive option for a forward short on game time.
Real Madrid are reportedly open to letting Endrick leave on loan in January if his situation does not improve, with the Spanish club still believed to see long term value in the 20 year old. A temporary move would allow him to gain experience elsewhere while Madrid retain the option of a return.
Arsenal said to prefer a permanent deal
Arsenal's reported preference, however, is for a permanent transfer rather than a loan arrangement. The club are said to view Endrick as a potential long term addition to their attacking options rather than a short term fix, though this would require Real Madrid's willingness to sell outright.
A loan remains the more realistic scenario for January if Madrid are not ready to part with him permanently. Any decision on his next step would ultimately come down to where Endrick believes he can get the best opportunity to develop and force his way into regular first team football.
Should he leave Madrid in the winter window, the choice between Arsenal and Aston Villa would represent two very different paths. Villa could offer a more direct route to regular minutes, while Arsenal's profile and ambitions in the Premier League and Europe could prove just as persuasive.
Nothing is imminent at this stage, with the report describing interest rather than concrete negotiations. Arsenal's business in January, particularly in attack, will likely become clearer as the market approaches and Endrick's situation at Real Madrid develops further.
