Transfer News: Chelsea lose to Real Madrid in the race to land Endrick
Chelsea have missed out on Palmeiras and Brazilian wonderkid Endrick after Spanish giants Real Madrid confirmed his signing. In an official statement by Los Blancos, they announced the agreement with the player and he will arrive at the Spanish capital once he turns 18 in 2024. (h/t Football. London)
Dubbed as the ‘next Neymar’ the Blues were among a host of other top European clubs linked with a move for the 16-year-old. As per journalist Fabrizio Romano, the European champions will pay €60 million for the youngster including add-ons.
The youngster has penned a deal that will keep him till 2027 at the La Liga club with the Madrid-based club having the option to extend his stay by another three years.
Graham Potter has been on a hunt for a new striker for some time now. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has not impressed so far and is also 33. He cannot be logically considered to be a long-term option for the west London club.
Armando Broja, who was impressive last season on loan at Southampton has shown glimpses of his potential this season. However, the 21-year-old picked up an ACL injury during a 1-0 friendly loss against Aston Villa last week and is now expected to miss out the rest of this season.
With Aubameyang being the only natural striker in the team a need for a new forward has arisen. German international Kai Havertz has also led the front line at times, but a natural striker will offer more advantage than a make-do striker.
Chelsea have linked with a few forwards in recent times. RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku is believed to have already agreed to terms with the west London club for a transfer next summer, while the west London club have also been linked to Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix.
More Chelsea News:
- Chelsea handed a major boost in their bid to sign England midfielder Declan Rice
- Transfer News: Chelsea could consider signing Dutch star Memphis Depay in January
- Chelsea told the way they can beat Real Madrid to sign Josko Gvardiol
It is no doubt a blow to have missed out on a talent like Endrick, but the Blues need to look forward. With the winter transfer window now approaching, it remains to be seen who if any striker is bought in by Potter to help bolster his attack.