Catalan giants Barcelona have reportedly fallen behind Paris Saint-Germain in the race to sign Brazilian prodigy Endrick from Palmeiras.
According to a report by Spanish publication SPORT, Endrick is closer to joining Paris Saint-Germain than his other suitors. The French champions are ahead of Barcelona and others in the race to sign the Brazilian prodigy.
Endrick has become one of the hottest properties in the transfer market on the back of a stunning 2022. The 16-year-old rose to prominence following his exploits at the Copinha, one of the most prestigious youth competitions. And his stock has risen further since breaking into the first-team squad.
The Brazilian prodigy is one of the youngest players ever to represent Palmeiras. He has already made his mark for them, scoring three goals and assisting one in seven games in the season’s final stretch. Endrick even got a Serie A winner’s medal after Palmeiras clinched the league title. And his exploits have captured the attention of Barcelona and PSG.
The Catalan giants are in contact with the teenage prodigy and his environment. And it is clear why Barcelona might be interested in the 16-year-old. With Robert Lewandowski in the final phase of his glittering career, Barcelona will need to lay down a succession plan for the veteran striker.
Endrick is thus a viable target for Barcelona, although his hefty price tag might force the Blaugrana to abandon hopes of signing him. At the same time, Barcelona will also have to fend off stiff competition from PSG to land the Brazilian wonderkid.
Recent reports have claimed that the French champions have already submitted an offer to sign Endrick. But Palmeiras reportedly turned down the first bid from PSG and will look to recoup a hefty sum for the young striker. Nonetheless, Les Parisiens remain in the pole position to land him.
It will be interesting to see if Barcelona or any other suitor can do anything to steal a march on PSG. Endrick cannot move to Europe before 2024, as he can only complete the transfer when he turns 18. So Barcelona will have plenty of time to try and usurp PSG in the race to sign the Brazilian prodigy.
