When it comes to producing world-class players, the soccer-crazy nation of Brazil tops the charts. Over the years, it has been a supply chain of sensational talents to Europe. Spanish giants Real Madrid, which have hosted some of the best Brazilian players of all time, continue to uphold this heritage even today.
The fourteen-time UEFA Champions League winners have seen significant success from two of their most impactful signings, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. Following the success of this charismatic Brazilian duo, Real added another Brazilian wonder kid, Endrick, to the roster to secure the future of the club’s attack. However, the club is careful to not repeat the mistake by missing out on this Brazilian youngster like they did with Neymar.
Real Madrid won’t make same mistake after Neymar’s Barca move
In December 2022, Real Madrid secured the signature of South American sensation Endrick from Brazilian giants Palmeiras, with a transfer fee of €35 million and add-on bonuses potentially increasing the deal’s value to €60 million. Madrid decided to allow the 16-year-old to continue his development at his boyhood club in Brazil.
The teenage prodigy is set to join the Los Blancos squad under Carlo Ancelotti in the 2024/25 season. He recently traveled to the Spanish capital to meet the manager and his future teammates, with whom he will be plying his trade, next season. The striker is expected to be directly involved with the main team.
Endrick Felipe’s agent, Frederico Pena, who also represents Vinicius Jr., recently revealed that the La Liga outfit pledged not to miss out on another Brazilian prodigy after failing to secure Neymar Jr. during his teenage years. He stated, “Real Madrid decided that they were never going to miss another talent like Vini or Endrik after Neymar moved to Barcelona.”
He continued, “Maybe there is a lesson for Chelsea because they were in front at the start but they were worried about the fee and then when Real came in and were prepared to pay what Palmeiras wanted, it became almost impossible for them.”
However, Madrid was not the only club in the run to secure the youngster’s signature.
Three EPL teams desired Endrick before Madrid deal
At just 16, Endrick’s talent caught the attention of some of Europe’s top clubs. The forward was lighting up the Brazilian top division with his exhilarating performances, racking up goals and showing glimpses of Ronaldo Nazario and Pelé in his playing style.
The Brazil international, set to be in action against England this Saturday at Wembley, was pursued by three English clubs. Premier League champions Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea all showed interest in the teenager. Among them, Chelsea came closest to signing him, especially after his parents visited Stamford Bridge in 2022.
However, they pulled out of the deal, unwilling to meet Palmeiras’ asking price for Endrick, believing it was too much for a 16-year-old. That’s when Los Blancos stepped in, agreeing to pay the amount to seal the deal.
While speaking to the Telegraph, his agent Pena said, “That was when the world really sat up and took notice. People in football already knew about him, but that’s when all the top clubs came in – Manchester City, Liverpool, Paris St-Germain, Chelsea, and, of course, Real Madrid.”
Do you think Endrick is another Brazilian superstar in the making?
