How Endrick was close to joining Chelsea

• Endrick is set to join La Liga giants Real Madrid in 2024 when he turns 18 years old
• The deal to sign the Brazilian teenager was sealed in December last year
• It has now emerged that Premier League side Chelsea had an agreement in place with the player first

Brazilian youngster Endrick is set to join Real Madrid when he turns 18 next summer, but things could easily have been different for the Brazilian prodigy. This is because recent revelations from Endrick’s father unveil a fascinating twist, detailing how this path could have diverged had Chelsea not seemingly pulled out at the last moment.

Real Madrid’s acquisition of Endrick for a substantial €60 million (£51.5 million) deal in December of the previous year drew parallels with their previous agreements to sign Brazilian talents Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo. The Spanish giants appeared to have seamlessly navigated the process, securing a rising star with the potential to make a significant impact on the world stage. Yet, hidden beneath the surface was a subplot involving Chelsea, a subplot that adds layers of intrigue to Endrick’s burgeoning career.

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According to Endrick’s father, Douglas Sousa, Chelsea extended a compelling invitation that painted a vivid picture of the potential move. The Sousa family ventured to London, witnessing a high-profile match between Chelsea and Arsenal. The experience included introductions to key figures such as the coach, facilities, and prominent players like Jorginho, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Thiago Silva. Beyond the footballing aspects, Chelsea meticulously laid out plans for the Sousa family, ranging from housing arrangements to schooling and even the church they would attend.

Brazilian youngster Endrick was close to joining Premier League side Chelsea but ended up signing with Real Madrid. The youngster is set to join Real Madrid when he turns 18 years old next summer. | PHOTO: talkSPORT |

Douglas Sousa reflects on this phase, stating, “Everything was in order for us and Chelsea.” The allure of London, the storied club, and the comprehensive preparations made the move seem imminent. The family was on the verge of embarking on a new chapter in the heart of English football. However, as the saying goes, “football is a game of uncertainties,” and the Sousa family was about to experience the capricious nature of the sport.

Chelsea deal collapse for Endrick

In a sudden turn of events, late into the negotiation process, Chelsea’s owner decided to withdraw from the deal. The reasons cited included concerns that the proposed €60 million deal for a 16-year-old would inflate the market. While the deal was not officially signed, the agreement was reportedly closed, leaving the Sousa family in a state of limbo. The dream of living in London with Chelsea, with visions of enduring the famous English cold weather, suddenly dissipated.

As the door with Chelsea closed, another one swung open. Real Madrid, a club renowned for spotting and nurturing talent, stepped in to secure Endrick’s services. The Spanish giants capitalized on the opportunity presented by Chelsea’s withdrawal, providing a new home for the prodigious forward. Now, as Endrick prepares to don the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid, his journey takes on a newfound significance.

Endrick’s recent exploits in Brazil’s top-flight, where he surpassed Neymar’s record for the most goals scored by a teenager, only add to the anticipation surrounding his future. In a projection by 90min using Football Manager 2024, Endrick emerged as a central figure, placing second in the Ballon d’Or rankings in 2032, just behind Barcelona’s prodigy Lamine Yamal. By 2034, he had sealed a staggering move to Manchester United for £124 million, affirming his status as one of football’s brightest talents.

The tale of Endrick underscores the intricate nature of football transfers, where a convergence of decisions, market dynamics, and individual potential shapes the course of a player’s career. As he prepares to embark on his journey with Real Madrid, the what-ifs of the Chelsea episode add an extra layer of intrigue to a narrative already filled with promise and potential. Football enthusiasts around the globe will keenly watch as Endrick’s story unfolds, wondering about the twists and turns that may yet lie ahead for this rising star.