Aston Villa have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Endrick on loan during the January transfer window, after it became clear to the Brazilian forward that his opportunities at Real Madrid under José Mourinho will remain limited.
Spanish radio network Cadena SER revealed that Unai Emery’s side have initiated moves for the player, who may prioritize a spell in the Premier League and participation in the UEFA Champions League, despite continued interest from AS Roma and AC Milan.
Endrick’s involvement with Real Madrid this season stands at just four minutes across the opening eight matches, having found himself behind Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Brahim Díaz, Carlos Espi, and a fit-again Rodrygo in Mourinho’s attacking hierarchy.
The Portuguese manager held a candid meeting with Endrick before the start of the season to inform him of the difficulty of securing regular game time, yet requested that Real Madrid’s board retain him, blocking a potential move that was close to completion over the summer.
Roma’s negotiations for the player had reached an advanced stage prior to Mourinho’s intervention, while Milan have renewed contact with his representatives—with the Brazilian drawing admiration from manager Rúben Amorim. Nevertheless, Aston Villa has now become the option gaining the most momentum.
The 20-year-old is tied to a long-term contract with Real Madrid, but the club recognizes that prolonged bench time could stymie his development and jeopardize his spot in the Brazil national team, particularly following public comments from Carlo Ancelotti regarding the necessity for young players to gain regular minutes.
A loan spell previously reignited Endrick’s career last season when he moved to Olympique Lyonnais in January 2026, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists across 21 appearances to regain his confidence and secure a spot in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
The player now aims to replicate the success of his Lyon spell through a new loan deal that offers him a primary role. Unai Emery’s project and Aston Villa’s presence on the European stage could prove decisive if the English club maintains its serious pursuit ahead of the winter window.
