AS Roma have identified Real Madrid striker Endrick as their priority attacking reinforcement for the January transfer window. The club's sporting director, Tony D'Amico, has labelled the 20-year-old Brazilian "a priority for January", confirming work that began last summer.
The Giallorossi, who sit top of Serie A with 13 points from five games, are seeking an extra attacking edge to stays. This need was highlighted in their 2-2 draw with Inter, a match that underlined the club's title ambitions. Management is now examining the feasibility of a loan deal with an option to buy and a buy-back clause for Real Madrid, a formula that could persuade the Spanish giants to temporarily part with the young talent.
The player's path
Endrick, who joined Real Madrid at 18, has found limited opportunities under José Mourinho this season, making just one four-minute substitute appearance in the league. A lack of playing time is a recognised issue for young Brazilians in Europe. Former Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti noted, "The problem with Brazilian players is that they do not improve because they do not play."
It was with the Brazilian national team that the player regained confidence, featuring in two matches against Australia. The desire for regular football is shared by Endrick's father, who is understood to have approved a potential move to the Italian capital. Endrick himself has reportedly told close friends that a switch to Roma, partly due to the presence of compatriot Wesley, is a very real possibility.
The Giallorossi context
The club is working on the deal with the aim of completing it when the winter window opens. Adding a prospect like Endrick could share the goal-scoring burden with current top scorer Donyell Malen, who has six goals in five appearances. The team, unbeaten in their last five with three wins and two draws, face Como away on October 11th before fully turning their focus to January plans.
This story first appeared at sports.yahoo.com
