Real Madrid dealt blow as Barcelona make move to sign 16-year-old transfer target | OneFootball

There is no doubt that Endrick is seemingly becoming the hottest prospect in South American football right now. The Palmeiras whizkid has raised many eyebrows with his dazzling performances in the youth leagues.

He is already on the books of the first team and is soon poised to make his professional debut for the club. Having enjoyed a rapid rise to prominence over the past 12 months, Endrick has found himself on the radar of several top clubs across Europe, including Real Madrid.

The Spanish giants had been keeping track of Endrick for a while now and intend to make a move in the near future. However, according to Diario SPORT, it appears they are set to face a major blow in their pursuit of the Palmeiras whizkid, who is also targeted by Barcelona.

The report suggests the Catalans have identified Endrick as their primary target in the South American market. To that end, they have made contact with the teenage forward’s entourage to express their interest in signing him.

A meeting was held in Catalonia, during which the Blaugrana explained in detail to Endrick’s representatives their intentions to land the 16-year-old.

On top of that, Barça intend to start talks with Palmeiras at the end of the season, even though the youngster is not eligible to move to Spain until 2024 when he is of legal age.

Barça have found major success when it comes to nurturing young players in recent years, as evidenced by Gavi, Pedri, and Ansu Fati’s recent rise to prominence. The Catalans are now willing to bet on Endrick to become the next big thing in world football.

The club have already held intense talks within their own camp over the possibility of signing Endrick and are closely monitoring the youngster’s progress at Palmeiras.

All is not lost for Real Madrid, though. Despite Barcelona’s recent efforts, they are expected to struggle in funding a move for the Palmeiras whizkid.

Not to mention, Los Blancos have built a solid reputation for nurturing Brazilian players in the recent past and could emerge as the preferred destination for Endrick himself, as he looks to take the next step in his career.

With PSG also on the lookout for the 16-year-old’s signing, Real Madrid will have a tough battle on their hands to sign Endrick.