Milan’s winter planning could again bring Endrick into view, with the Brazilian forward facing a difficult opening to the season at Real Madrid and a possible loan increasingly part of the conversation around his development.
A stalled start in Madrid
Endrick has had very little match involvement since returning to Real Madrid in the summer. The 20-year-old former Palmeiras player has been held back by the competition for places in the Spanish side’s attacking department, spending most matchdays on the bench.
- He was not used in Real Madrid’s first matches of the campaign.
- His only appearance came against Elche, shortly before the international break, when he played four minutes.
- He did not enter the Champions League match against Inter.
Images of the forward’s disappointment have circulated widely, particularly in Brazil, where there is growing belief that a January move may be needed to restore regular football. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti is understood to have advised Endrick to consider alternative options during the winter window so that his progress does not lose further momentum.
Milan return to a familiar idea
The Rossoneri had already explored the possibility of signing Endrick during the summer. Gerry Cardinale attempted to open discussions with Real Madrid in July, while Milan also met the player’s representatives to assess whether a deal could be built.
Real Madrid, however, made clear that it did not want the player to leave. Florentino Pérez preferred to keep Endrick in the squad as an option behind Kylian Mbappé across the season. With the expected opportunities yet to arrive, Milan may see January as a different moment in the story.
Any operation would be based on a temporary arrangement. Real Madrid do not intend to sell Endrick permanently, given his age and the value they still place on his future, but a loan until the end of the season could be considered.
The precedent and the January contest
A loan would not be unfamiliar territory for the Brazilian. Last season also began with limited opportunities before a December switch to Lyon changed the course of his campaign.
- Six months under Paulo Fonseca gave him more consistent playing time.
- He began scoring again and regained confidence.
- The spell in France also helped him retain his place in the World Cup squad.
The same issue has now returned in Madrid. In the coming weeks, José Mourinho and Endrick will weigh up the course to take, while Milan remain ready to act if Real Madrid open the door.
The relationship between Milan and Real Madrid is regarded as strong, stretching back to the Silvio Berlusconi era and reinforced by more recent business. Theo Hernández joined Milan permanently from the Spanish club, while Brahim Díaz spent two seasons on loan with the Rossoneri before returning to Madrid.
Milan will not be alone if Endrick becomes available. Roma and other clubs are also expected to press for the chance to take him on loan until June, making the January window a significant decision point for a young forward whose season has barely begun on the pitch.
