In recent years, Real Madrid have had great success in the South American transfer market, signing the likes of Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes and Endrick Felipe. They are hoping to do more business in the region, having taken a liking for River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono. Given their coups, it’s no surprise that other clubs are trying the same methods.
This applies to Chelsea, who tried – and failed – to sign Endrick in 2022, although they have now all-but snapped up his Palmeiras teammate, Estevao Willian. They’re also looking at Sport Recife full-back Pedro Lima.
As per Relevo, Chelsea have been inspired to follow the South America route after they missed out on Juni Calafat a couple of years ago. Calafat is Real Madrid’s transfer maestro, and he has been credited with a huge role in the deals done for Vinicius, Rodrygo and Endrick.
Despite the increased competition, Real Madrid will fancy their chances of signing any South America talent that they settle their eyes on. They weren’t fully in the race for Estevao, so their hit rate is still going strong.