Chelsea will have to match their spend on teenagers from the summer window if they want to seal a deal to sign Palmeiras wonderkid Endrick, as the transfer battle to secure the forward heats up.
The 16-year-old is one of the most in-demand stars in the world after breaking into his club's senior side and scoring three goals already despite his young age, and clubs across Europe are preparing to invest huge funds in order to attract him.
Although he can't officially join a team until he turns 18, Endrick can sign a pre-agreement much like Real Madrid's deal to bring Vinicius Jr to Europe in 2018. The Spanish giants spent £39.5million on the 18-year-old at the time and are now reaping the rewards.
READ MORE: Gareth Southgate has just handed Graham Potter early Christmas present with clear Chelsea plan
The winger is one of the most feared attackers in world football, scoring 17 goals and grabbing 13 assists last season in a true breakout year. Endrick is two years younger than Vinicius Jr when he made the move, but he's still attracting massive attention.
Madrid themselves are interested, as are Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and a host of other top teams. Boehly has already set his stall out though after spending over £50million on teenagers in his first summer at Stamford Bridge. Carney Chukwuemeka was bought in a deal worth up to £20million, Cesare Casadei similarly priced and Gabriel Slonina for £12million.
Endrick alone could end up costing £52million though as ESPN Brasil report that Paris Saint-Germain have had an offer worth €45million (£39million) rejected by Palmeiras. The groundwork from Chelsea's side has been ramped up without a bid being lodged, and Endrick's father Douglas was welcomed to the club and shown around the Cobham training base with Brazilian international idol and legend Thiago Silva acting as an incentive.
It is also said that PSG will raise that offer to £52million, and that Chelsea are willing to match the bid from the French giants. That figure is the release clause in his contract and may well be met by several clubs which could leave the destination down to the player. But the Blues may have an advantage over some of the European elite, with it said that he prefers a move to the Premier League.
When Neymar moved to Barcelona as a 21-year-old that was for £72million, but he was five years the senior of Endrick and was already establishing himself in the Brazil national squad.
READ NEXT:
Predicted Chelsea team vs Newcastle – Silva risked, Jorginho returns, Aubameyang decision made
Every word Graham Potter said on Chelsea process, Boehly meeting, James, Jorginho, Gallagher
Graham Potter provides Jorginho injury update as Chelsea receive Newcastle boost
Full list of Chelsea players going to Qatar 2022 World Cup with double omission as Gallagher in
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
