In a surprising twist to the January transfer window, Real Madrid's highly-rated Brazilian striker Endrick has decided to join French club Lyon on a temporary deal, despite last-minute interest from Manchester United.
The Loan Deal Takes Shape
Meetings held this week have resulted in an agreement in principle for the 19-year-old to move to Lyon on loan for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. According to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, the deal is expected to be formally confirmed when the transfer window reopens at the end of the year.
The young prodigy, who joined Real Madrid in 2022 amid intense global competition for his signature, has found opportunities severely limited this season under manager Xabi Alonso. Endrick has managed just a single appearance from the bench against Valencia, a situation that has also seen him omitted from the last four Brazil squads selected by his former Real boss, Carlo Ancelotti.
Manchester United's Late Entry
The plot thickened over the weekend when Manchester United's new £64 million striker, Benjamin Sesko, sustained a knee injury during the 2-2 draw with Tottenham. The immediate concern over Sesko's fitness prompted the Premier League club to explore a move for Endrick as potential cover.
However, the report indicates that Endrick remained solely focused on the move to Lyon, believing the Ligue 1 outfit will provide the consistent first-team football and a 'leading role' he desperately needs. His primary objective is to secure a place in the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup in the USA.
Why Lyon Won the Race
It appears that the promise of a central role was the decisive factor. The report further reveals that clubs of a 'higher calibre' than Lyon also approached Real Madrid, but the Brazilian teenager prioritised guaranteed playing time over a potentially more glamorous destination.
Lyon initiated negotiations with Real at the start of November, and Endrick was immediately receptive to the project. His decision was reinforced by advice from Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, who earlier this week encouraged the player to discuss his best options with his club.
'He has to think with his entourage about what’s best,' Ancelotti stated. 'Talk to the club, to see what’s best for him.' The Italian manager also offered a long-term perspective, noting that while Endrick has the quality for the 2026 World Cup, he is young enough to feature in several more tournaments beyond.
For now, Endrick's immediate future lies in France, as he takes a calculated step to reignite his career and force his way back into international contention.
