By Martin Graham
Following their exit from the Club World Cup, Real Madrid have restarted their work in the transfer market. The long-anticipated arrival of Álvaro Carreras from Benfica is now close to completion. Meanwhile, departures from the squad are also being considered, particularly in the attacking department.
Head coach Xabi Alonso is faced with managing a crowded forward line. With the rise of Gonzalo Garcia and the arrivals of Kylian Mbappé and Endrick Felipe, Los Blancos now have several options for the centre-forward position. Additionally, both Rodrygo Goes and Vinícius Júnior are capable of playing through the middle when needed.
Endrick’s refusal to leave complicates Madrid’s plans
The club had intended to send Endrick out on loan in order to facilitate his development, but those plans have hit a roadblock. According to Diario AS, the young Brazilian is not in favour of departing this summer. He wants to remain in Madrid and is confident in his chances of earning significant playing time during the 2025-26 season. Endrick is determined to challenge Gonzalo Garcia for the backup role behind Mbappé.
A recent injury further complicates matters. Endrick picked up a knock in a match against Paris Saint-Germain, which is expected to keep him sidelined for around eight weeks. This setback makes an outgoing move even less likely, and it increases the likelihood that Real Madrid will retain him for the upcoming campaign. As a result, the club could shift focus to a potential departure for Gonzalo instead.
Madrid may stick with Endrick despite concerns
Keeping Endrick at the Bernabéu is not seen as a major risk, even if it slows his progression. Despite limited starts during the 2024-25 season, he managed to make a decent impact—scoring seven times in 37 appearances across all competitions, eight of which were starts. Given the circumstances, Real Madrid may find value in continuing to integrate him gradually rather than forcing a move.
