Arsenal have begun exploring a move for Real Madrid striker Endrick, with the Brazilian emerging as Mikel Arteta’s new attacking option after the Gunners failed to convince Julián Álvarez to move to the Emirates Stadium.
TalkSPORT journalist Alex Crook revealed that Arsenal have held initial talks over a potential deal, although no agreement has been reached and its structure—either a permanent transfer or a loan—has yet to be determined. The discussions remain at the enquiry and exploratory stage.
Why Have Arsenal Turned from Álvarez to Endrick?
Arsenal are aware that Álvarez has not given them the approval they need, as the Atlético Madrid striker remains determined to join Barcelona. His club are also demanding around €150 million to sell him elsewhere—a huge investment for a player who does not consider the English side his preferred destination.
An Endrick deal appears more affordable in principle, particularly if structured as a loan, while a permanent move would not be expected to reach Atlético’s asking price for Álvarez. However, the main obstacle is not purely financial, but also the position of Real Madrid and head coach José Mourinho.
Real Madrid remain determined to keep Endrick, while Mourinho believes he can use the Brazilian as both a centre-forward and a right winger. Endrick also has no current desire to leave his dream club. The situation may change only if he personally requests a loan because of limited playing time, potentially forcing Madrid to reconsider offers rather than risk reducing the value of their investment.
The 20-year-old faces intense competition in attack. Kylian Mbappé remains the first-choice centre-forward, while Real Madrid have signed Carlos Espí to provide a more traditional presence inside the penalty area. Vinícius Júnior, Yan Diomande, Brahim Díaz and Rodrygo are also competing for places on the wings.
Endrick’s Struggles and His Lyon Loan
Endrick has struggled to secure regular football since arriving in Madrid. He made 37 appearances and scored seven goals during his first season, but most of those outings came from the bench. He then played only 99 minutes in the first half of the 2025-26 campaign before requesting a temporary move in search of greater playing time.
The forward joined Lyon on loan in January for a fee of around €1 million and enjoyed a successful spell, registering eight goals and seven assists in 21 appearances across all competitions. His highlights included a hat-trick against Metz, while he also featured on the right wing and demonstrated his ability to operate away from the traditional number nine position.
Real Madrid signed Endrick from Palmeiras for a guaranteed €35 million plus €25 million in performance-related add-ons. When taxes, wages, commissions and bonuses are included, the club’s total investment is approaching €80 million, meaning Madrid are reluctant to give up on him permanently.
Roma and Aston Villa previously made progress in talks over a loan, while Manchester United showed interest and offered the Brazilian a more prominent role. Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham and Fulham were also approached about his availability, but Endrick rejected those possible routes and chose to fight for his place at Real Madrid. Lyon were similarly unable to convince him to stay.
With Arsenal holding initial talks and both Real Madrid and Endrick currently committed to continuing together, the picture remains unclear. A permanent transfer appears difficult, while a loan will become realistic only if Endrick changes his position and asks to leave in order to secure regular football, leaving the deal dependent on developments during the final days of the window.
