Arsenal Monitor Endrick’s Real Madrid Situation Ahead of January

Arsenal are keeping watch on Endrick’s reduced role at Real Madrid ahead of the January window, while Manchester City and Liverpool are assessing Real Sociedad full-back Jon Aramburu as they review defensive options. Elsewhere, Liverpool expect interest in Florian Wirtz but remain determined to retain him, and Real Madrid are working towards a new long-term agreement with Jude Bellingham.

Endrick situation puts January focus on Arsenal

Endrick made his first appearance of the campaign as a late replacement in Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory at Elche on Tuesday. The Brazil international, 20, is concerned by his current opportunities and what they could mean for his longer-term place in the squad, with competition for attacking places limiting his involvement.

Arsenal are monitoring the position and could consider an approach in January. The forward would prefer to remain in Madrid, while the Spanish club are reluctant to sell a player in whom they have made a substantial investment. Nevertheless, several leading English clubs believe a future opening could develop, with Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United also among those alert to the prospect of his availability in 2027.

Aramburu’s versatility draws major Premier League interest

City and Liverpool are both considering a move for Aramburu after the 24-year-old’s strong La Liga displays for Real Sociedad. The Venezuela international has impressed defensively, particularly in direct duels, while also contributing in advanced areas.

Aramburu’s capacity to operate on either flank has added to his appeal for recruitment teams across Europe. His Real Sociedad deal runs through 2030 and includes a release clause understood to be close to £50 million.

1. Endrick returns to action as a substitute during Real Madrid’s 3-2 win at Elche.
2. Arsenal continue to follow his minutes and his standing in Madrid’s crowded forward line before January.
3. Manchester City and Liverpool assess Aramburu, whose contract protection gives Real Sociedad a strong position.
4. Liverpool prepare for possible approaches for Wirtz but intend to keep the Germany midfielder.

Liverpool intend to resist Wirtz approaches

Liverpool are braced for January enquiries for Florian Wirtz, with Bayern Munich among the clubs linked with a move for the 23-year-old. Wirtz has not yet produced his best level consistently since joining from Bayer Leverkusen and has gone 12 competitive appearances for club and country without scoring.

That run has encouraged rivals to believe a deal may be possible, but Liverpool do not want to sanction an exit. Head coach Andoni Iraola continues to regard Wirtz as an important part of his plans.

Contract security and squad concerns at Madrid and Chelsea

Real Madrid are close to agreeing an extension with Bellingham that would take the England midfielder’s contract to 2032. His current terms expire in 2029, but the club want to settle the matter early for a player viewed as central to their long-term project.

The 23-year-old has recorded two goals and two assists under José Mourinho this season. A new agreement would remove the risk of a drawn-out contract discussion in the coming years.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are concerned that centre-back Josh Acheampong could seek a move in January amid growing external interest. The 20-year-old has been handed a starting place and has received assurances from Xabi Alonso that he features in the club’s future plans. He has started four matches, although Chelsea’s defence has conceded at least twice per game during the 2026-27 season.

January market could also affect Arsenal, Spurs and Juventus

Arsenal may be prepared to let Viktor Gyökeres depart in January if they first secure a replacement striker. Juventus, Al Ittihad, Milan and Al Ahli are all credited with interest in the Sweden international.

Tottenham Hotspur have turned down an offer from Shabab Al Ahli for Richarlison, despite the Brazilian being open to a transfer that would reunite him with former coach Andre Jardine.

Juventus are looking for goalkeeper cover after Kamil Grabara suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Leeds United, however, have no intention of selling Dominic Calvert-Lewin, despite suggestions that Manchester United have been tracking the in-form 29-year-old.

Development moves and Bundesliga interest

Barcelona have reached an agreement to sign Portuguese attacking midfielder Danny Freire, 16, after he came through a successful trial period.

PAOK midfielder Christos Zafeiris is also attracting attention from Germany. RB Leipzig, Hoffenheim and Stuttgart are among the clubs following the 23-year-old.

Key takeaways

• Arsenal’s interest in Endrick is tied to his limited Real Madrid involvement, but neither player nor club currently favours a separation.
• Aramburu’s £50 million release clause and ability to play on both sides of defence make him a notable target for City and Liverpool.
• Liverpool expect transfer interest in Wirtz but are planning to reject bids for the midfielder.
• Real Madrid are seeking to secure Bellingham until 2032, while Chelsea are trying to protect Acheampong’s future.