'They were in front' - Endrick's agent confirms Chelsea missed out on Brazilian wonderkid despite him visiting Cobham with his parents before Real Madrid move

The 17-year-old left-footed forward has captured the attention of top European clubs with his exceptional talent and promising future. Endrick's journey to stardom took a significant turn as Real Madrid swooped in to secure his services, reaching an agreement with Palmeiras in 2022 after they agreed to pay his €60 million (£52m/$64m) release clause, with €35m due up front and a further €25m in add-ons. Despite initial interest from Chelsea, negotiations fell through due to concerns over the transfer fee, allowing Real Madrid to seize the opportunity and secure the promising teenager.

Frederico Pena, Endrick's agent, shed light on Chelsea's hesitation, suggesting that the London club was deterred by the hefty price tag associated with the young talent.

“I think Real decided that they were never going to miss another talent like [Vinicius Jr} or Endrick after Neymar moved to Barcelona,” said Frederico Pena to theDaily Telegraph.

“Maybe there is a lesson for Chelsea because they were in front at the start. The boy’s parents visited Cobham and were impressed, but Chelsea were worried about the fee and then when Real came in and were prepared to pay what Palmeiras wanted, it became almost impossible for them.”

With Endrick poised to join the ranks of Brazilian stars at the Spanish capital club, expectations are high for the young forward to make a significant impact. Pena provided insight into his character, describing him as reserved yet exceptionally clever, distinguishing him from the exuberance of fellow Brazilian stars like Vinicius Jr and Neymar.

“He is not a boy you will see laughing or smiling all the time like Vini or Neymar,” said Pena. “He is a different character to those guys, more reserved but very, very clever. He is learning Spanish and already started to learn English before that. It’s a big moment for him, for sure,” said Pena. “He’s already played in the Maracana for Brazil and he knows about Wembley and what it would mean to play there. Then there is the Bernabeu, which will soon be his home. Aged 17, it doesn’t get much better than that.”

While Chelsea may have missed out on securing Endrick's signature, the Brazilian prodigy continues to garner attention on the international stage and has already earned two senior caps for Brazil. His upcoming appearance for the Selecao against England at Wembley Stadium on Saturday provides him with another opportunity to showcase his talent and further bolster his burgeoning reputation.