Arsenal’s January plans are starting to take shape, and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what they need.

The summer business left them short in attack, with Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus all being sold and just Christos Tzolis coming in. Now with Bukayo Saka injured, the lack of depth is clear as day.

A transitional winger is said to be top of Mikel Arteta’s list of priorities, and Arsenal have also been keeping tabs on strikers. But a big sale may be needed first, which is why Martin Zubimendi’s future is up in the air.

One name has been on their radar for a while, and he’s played so little this season that he could become available. Until recently, his club insisted he was going nowhere. Now the player himself has had his say.

But speaking to @cahemota, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano, Endrick didn’t sound so sure. “I’m only 20, so I’ll see how things unfold. I just want to play, be happy, and help my teammates,” he said.

“I don’t know what will happen in January; that’s in God’s hands. I only ask for what’s best for my career. Whatever is meant to happen, will happen. I’ll keep my feet on the ground and continue doing my absolute best. Madrid is a wonderful city, but I will always do whatever it takes to advance my career.”

That’s hardly the response of a player who’s settled. Endrick has played just 85 minutes in La Liga this season, all from four substitute appearances, and “whatever it takes to advance my career” sounds like someone who knows that isn’t enough.

Arsenal should be ready if Endrick becomes available

Endrick wouldn’t solve everything wrong with the Arsenal attack. He’s more of a second striker than the transitional left winger they also need, and there could be a market opportunity there, even if it’s on loan.

Real Madrid surely can’t keep everyone happy, even if Mourinho wants to, and Arsenal are now a favourable destination for the best young talents around. Endrick, Eli Junior Kroupi, Nico Paz, Antonio Nusa and Paris Brunner have all been linked, and if any of them fit into Arteta’s thinking, Arsenal should go and get them.

After missing out on Vinicius Jr and Julian Alvarez in the summer, the last thing fans want to see is the club missing out again.

Is the Vinicius door still open? It’s hard to see. Judging by how he’s played since that saga, Arsenal may even have dodged a bullet. Endrick, though, still has three-and-a-half years left on his contract, so if Madrid do let him go in January, it won’t be straightforward, but Arsenal should certainly consider it.