Barça in 'cold war' for Endrick as star prepares for final vs. Santos

There's a war underway for Endrick, the young star of Palmeiras who has been the sensation of the Copa Sao Paulo de Juniores. Barcelona, through their scout in Brazil Jose Manuel Barla, Real Madrid and Europe's biggest clubs have been following the tournament and filing reports on the 15-year-old forward.

Endrick is a No.9 with a golden left foot. He has an incredible goal-scoring record (168 in 174 games for Palmeiras' academy) as well as intelligence, bravery and generosity. In Brazil, people are convinced he's the most interesting player to come through since the emergence of Neymar a decade ago at Santos. They compare him to Romario and Ronaldo.

For now, no one has made a move for a teenager that still has a development contract. On July 21, when he turns 16, he will sign his first professional deal with Palmeiras, lasting three years. Barça, Madrid and the English trio of Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool are all lurking. They're all interested in fighting their way to the front of the queue. Endrick is a player with physical and technical attributes that could be a success in any European league.

The precocity of this young star, who at the age of 15 already makes a difference playing against under-21 players, may cause hostilities to be unleashed, taking into account that, due to the regulations FIFA, any non-EU player cannot go to Europe until they reach the age of 18, which will only happen in July 2024.

However, clubs can secure an option to buy or even a transfer, while leaving him in his homeland.

He has already trained with Palmeiras' first team and he will join Abel Ferreira's squad in July when he turns 16. They are waiting for him with open arms. He feels no pressure, but first he is focused on winning the Copa Sao Paulo. On Tuesday he has the biggest game of his short career: Palmeiras vs. Santos in the final.

The game will be played at the Allianz Parque, the stadium will be full and the game will be televised in Brazil. Barça will be among the clubs watching.