Arsenal have reportedly begun exploring potential deals for Real Madrid forward Endrick and Monza striker Gustavo Varela as manager Mikel Arteta evaluates ways to strengthen his attacking options ahead of upcoming transfer windows.

According to FootballTransfers, in a report published on October 31, 2026, the Premier League champions have contacted Endrick’s representatives while also gathering information about Varela, whose performances in Italy have attracted attention.

The Gunners’ recruitment plans come amid uncertainty surrounding Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish striker has found it difficult to establish consistent form this season, prompting speculation that Arsenal could consider allowing him to leave in 2027 if his situation does not improve.

Endrick has also been linked with a possible departure from Real Madrid because of his limited opportunities under manager José Mourinho. The 20-year-old has accumulated just 107 minutes of playing time this season and was not introduced during Real Madrid’s recent victory over Barcelona in El Clasico.

TEAMtalk reports that Arsenal remain in contact with the Brazilian’s representatives as they assess whether a January move to the Emirates Stadium could be possible. The London club are understood to favour a loan arrangement that would include an option to complete a permanent transfer later.

However, Real Madrid are reportedly more interested in a temporary agreement without a purchase clause, allowing the forward to gain regular experience before returning to the Spanish capital. That difference in preference could become an important factor in determining whether negotiations advance.

Arsenal are not the only club monitoring Endrick’s circumstances. AC Milan and Roma have also been linked with the Brazilian, with both Italian sides reportedly considering loan proposals that would allow him to return to Madrid after gaining more first-team opportunities.

Alongside their interest in Endrick, the Gunners have reportedly made enquiries about Varela, who has emerged as an exciting attacking prospect in Italian football. The 21-year-old Portuguese youth international has enjoyed an impressive start to life at Monza following his arrival from Benfica.

Calciomercato reports that Arsenal have requested information about the striker, although there is no clear indication that the club have decided to pursue a transfer during the January window.

Varela’s statistics have strengthened his growing reputation. He has scored 10 goals in nine appearances for Monza, including eight goals in eight Serie A matches since completing his move from Benfica. His performances have therefore placed him among the young forwards attracting attention from clubs outside Italy.

Although he is considered less established at the highest level than Endrick, Varela offers a different physical profile that could potentially suit the demands of English football. His development and goalscoring record may make him an alternative option as Arsenal assess their attacking requirements.

Both players would represent investments in young talent, but any move would require careful consideration. With the season already underway and the demands of competing across several competitions, Arsenal must weigh the potential benefits of recruitment against the risks of introducing relatively inexperienced forwards into the squad.

For now, the reported enquiries suggest that Arteta and the club’s recruitment team are examining multiple possibilities rather than committing to a specific target.