Villa and United compete for La liga star | OneFootball

Endrick future uncertain as Man Utd eye January loan amid Real Madrid frustration

Endrick’s journey at Real Madrid has yet to ignite, and the situation could soon open a door for Manchester United. The Brazilian forward, once heralded as one of the most promising young players in world football, has struggled for game time in Spain — prompting fresh speculation about a January move.

Endrick’s struggles in Madrid

When Real Madrid secured Endrick’s signature from Palmeiras in 2024 for a reported £61 million, the excitement was tangible. The teenager was expected to develop under elite guidance, learning from some of the game’s biggest names. However, things have not gone to plan.

Now 19, Endrick has found himself on the periphery of Xabi Alonso’s plans. Despite being fit and training regularly, he has yet to feature this season, and his total game time since arriving in Spain remains modest. His three league starts and 36 appearances across all competitions have been far from the impact many predicted.

Alonso has praised Endrick’s attitude in training but insists he is waiting for the “right moment” to introduce him more regularly. Yet with Madrid competing on multiple fronts and relying on experienced forwards in key fixtures, that opportunity has yet to arrive.

Photo: IMAGO

Premier League interest grows

Manchester United have been monitoring the situation closely. Arne Slot’s Liverpool and Aston Villa are also reported to be tracking developments, while Juventus and West Ham have registered interest in recent weeks. The competition for Endrick’s signature — even on a temporary deal — could intensify as the January window approaches.

Villa’s interest is believed to focus on a potential loan move, while United could explore both a short-term arrangement and a more permanent structure, depending on Real Madrid’s stance. Sources in Spain suggest Los Blancos would prefer any suitor to cover the entirety of the player’s wages, a detail that could influence negotiations.

Real Madrid’s position and Endrick’s decision

From Madrid’s perspective, the club still believe in Endrick’s long-term potential. However, balancing development with the demands of competing for major honours is a challenge. A loan spell could offer a solution, allowing Endrick to gain regular minutes while keeping his long-term future tied to the Bernabéu.

For Endrick himself, patience appears to be wearing thin. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, he knows that continued absence from first-team football could jeopardise his chances of featuring for Brazil. His representatives are understood to be assessing potential destinations where playing time is more likely.

What happens next

Manchester United’s scouting department has maintained contact with intermediaries involved in the situation, aware that a temporary move could benefit all parties. Real Madrid, meanwhile, remain cautious, unwilling to part with one of their most valuable young assets permanently.

Should the right offer materialise — one that balances financial terms and development opportunities — Endrick could well make the move to England before the end of January. For United, the chance to add a prodigious Brazilian talent to their evolving squad could be too tempting to ignore.