Arsenal’s winter planning appears to be accelerating, with fresh indications that Real Madrid forward Endrick is under consideration while Martin Zubimendi’s future at the Emirates looks increasingly open. According to talkSPORT, the Gunners are assessing the market carefully as Mikel Arteta looks to protect his squad against disruption in the attacking unit and possible movement in midfield.

The headline Arsenal development centres on Endrick. The report states that “Arsenal are eyeing a potential January swoop for Real Madrid winger Endrick, talkSPORT understands.” It is a significant detail, particularly in the context of Bukayo Saka’s absence and Arsenal’s clear desire to add depth and flexibility in forward areas.

Endrick’s situation in Madrid is described as unsettled. He is “out of favour at Real having played just 114 minutes this season” and that has naturally alerted clubs monitoring opportunities for a short-term or permanent deal. Arsenal’s recruitment team are well aware that availability can shift quickly when elite young talent becomes frustrated by limited minutes.

Endrick transfer interest makes sense for Arsenal

There is logic to Arsenal’s interest. Endrick brings pace, directness and unpredictability, traits that could support an attack that has occasionally looked reliant on established starters. The report adds that the Brazilian “is one of a number of options having been offered to Premier League clubs in the last winter transfer window.” That suggests a market opportunity rather than a straightforward chase, but Arsenal’s position in that queue matters.

Another notable line in the report explains that Endrick “is registered with the same firm of agents as Real teammate Vinicius Junior, with whom Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has a good relationship.” In high-level recruitment, those connections can be relevant. They do not guarantee a transfer, but they can help create channels for serious discussion at the right moment.

At the same time, Arsenal’s preferred option may lie elsewhere. “Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s top choice would be Bournemouth’s Eli Junior Kroupi, but the Cherries have made it clear he is not for sale.” That may prove decisive. If Bournemouth hold their line, Arsenal could need to move swiftly to alternatives, and Endrick’s profile makes him one to watch.

Martin Zubimendi future under fresh scrutiny

There is also movement around Zubimendi, whose place in the squad appears less certain than many would have anticipated. The report claims “Atletico Madrid are leading the race to sign forgotten Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi.” That wording is striking, and it underlines how quickly competition and selection dynamics can reshape a player’s standing.

Zubimendi has “fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates following the summer signing of Bruno Guimaraes and the early-season form of Myles Lewis-Skelly.” In practical terms, that leaves him needing either patience or a new project. The report goes further, noting that “the feeling in Spain is that he wants to leave.” If accurate, Arsenal may soon need to decide whether to resist interest or facilitate a departure on suitable terms.

It is also said that “Atleti boss Diego Simeone is believed to have given his blessing to signing the 27-year-old.” That is the sort of backing which tends to give a move credibility, especially when a club of Atletico’s stature senses a chance to secure an experienced midfielder who may be available.

Arsenal transfer window could hinge on timing

For Arsenal, the balance is delicate. They are trying to strengthen in attack without overcommitting, while also managing a midfield situation that may yet become active. Endrick’s limited role at Real Madrid gives the club a possible opening, and Zubimendi’s uncertain standing introduces another layer to the winter window.

There is still work to do before either situation develops into something concrete. But the direction of travel is becoming clearer, and Arsenal’s next moves may depend on whether opportunity arrives before necessity turns into urgency.

Our View

This is exactly the kind of report that stirs optimism. Endrick feels like the sort of opportunistic deal top clubs need to be ready for. If a talent of that level is genuinely available, even in difficult circumstances, Arsenal should be in the conversation. The squad needs another attacking option who can change a game, stretch defenders and keep standards high when injuries hit. The line about him being “out of favour at Real having played just 114 minutes this season” jumps out, because that usually means there is a player desperate to prove a point.

There is also something encouraging in the mention of Andrea Berta’s relationship network. Elite recruitment often comes down to timing, trust and knowing when a door is quietly open. Arsenal must take advantage if that opening is real.

Zubimendi is the more frustrating part. He is an excellent midfielder, but if “the feeling in Spain is that he wants to leave”, then dragging it out helps nobody. If he wants a fresh start, get the right fee and reinvest decisively. Arsenal are in a position where every squad place matters, every signing has to move the level up, and every outgoing should create room for the next solution. If Endrick is a real possibility, this is one to push hard on.