Arsenal tipped to sign Brazilian sensation - he's been dubbed the "next Pele"

Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva has hinted at the Gunners' chances of signing Brazilian sensation Endrick from Palmeiras.

The 16-year-old has been linked with top European clubs throughout 2022. He agreed a three-year professional contract with Palmeiras earlier this year.

Endrick has been compared to Brazil legends such as Pele and Ronaldo. He has a low centre of gravity, is exceptional on the ball, and has an excellent left-footed shot.

The young Brazilian netted 165 goals in 169 games for Palmeiras' youth teams, and also has five goals in four games for Brazil U16.

Endrick cannot legally leave Brazil to join another club until he turns 18, which is not until July 2024. However, that hasn't stopped top sides, such as Real Madrid and Chelsea, keeping tabs on him.

Endrick even visited Real's training ground earlier this year. Now Arsenal are being linked with potentially making a move.

Arsenal to sign Endrick?

Gilberto Silva, who was a member of the Arsenal 'Invincibles' team of 2003/04 and played for the club between 2002 and 2008, mentioned the Gunners whilst discussing potential destinations for Endrick.

Speaking to Metro, he said: "We know the importance, in football, of being well connected, to people, clubs, sporting directors, presidents of the club.

"This is how things happen. But there is big competition to get the best players, from the best leagues.

"For Palmeiras, they are going to receive a lot of calls from many clubs, the best clubs in the world to try and bring him to them.

"Let's see, if some point Arsenal did manage to bring the player, they will be getting a very good player."

One key contact Arsenal have is through their technical director, Edu. The former Arsenal midfielder has contacts in Brazil, and has helped the club to bring in Marquinhos and Gabriel Martinelli from the Brazilian leagues in recent seasons.

They are part of a Brazilian contingent at Arsenal, with Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Jesus. That could be a key factor for Endrick in determining his next club, if the Gunners do indeed make a move.