Endrick weighs Real Madrid loan move with Milan his preferred destination

Brazil forward Endrick is seriously considering leaving Real Madrid on loan during the January transfer window because of limited playing time, with Italian reports claiming he would favour a move to Milan.

The 20-year-old returned to Real Madrid after a successful loan spell with Olympique Lyon, where he scored eight goals and provided eight assists in 21 appearances last season. That form helped him regain some of his reputation and earn involvement with Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.

However, his return to Madrid has not developed as expected. The arrival of Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig, combined with a muscle injury, has made it more difficult for the former Palmeiras player to establish himself in the squad.

Endrick has played only four minutes for Real Madrid this season, coming on in the 3-2 victory over Elche on 15 September. His restricted involvement has increased concerns over whether he will receive enough football during the rest of the campaign, while reports have claimed manager Jose Mourinho has left him out of his plans.

Although Endrick is under contract with Real Madrid until June 2030, he is understood to recognise that a lack of regular football could affect both his development and his chances of retaining his place in the Brazil squad. That has left him open to a temporary move when the winter transfer window opens.

Several clubs showed interest in signing him during the summer, including Milan, Roma, Juventus and Aston Villa. Olympique Lyon also remained open to bringing back the player who impressed during his loan spell.

Milan lead the race

Competition for Endrick’s signature could increase in January, with Real Madrid possessing a crowded group of attacking options that includes Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Yan Diomande, Carlos Espe, Brahim Diaz and Rodrygo.

Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Endrick has told Milan they would be his preferred destination if he leaves Real Madrid on loan.

A move to San Siro would also reunite him with former Real Madrid team-mate Luka Modric. The Croatia midfielder left the Spanish club in the summer of 2025 when his contract expired and joined Milan as a free agent.

Milan made an approach for Endrick last summer and hope those discussions can help them secure a deal in the next transfer window. The Italian club may also benefit from the strong relationship between Roc Nation, the agency representing Endrick, and Milan owner Gerry Cardinale.

Those links could prove significant as the club considers additional attacking options. Milan are expected to be without Alexis Saelemaekers for about four months after his injury.

Endrick’s ability to operate in several attacking roles could further strengthen Milan’s interest. He can play on the right wing or behind the main striker, potentially offering the club an alternative option during the second half of the season.