Olympique Lyonnais is working behind the scenes to achieve a huge coup during the next winter transfer window. After a checkered start to the season, the Rhone club is seeking to send a strong signal by attracting a name capable of galvanizing the team and the supporters. This name is that of one of the greatest talents in world football. Contact is established, the project has been presented and, most importantly, the player has given the green light. The dream seems within reach, but the path is still strewn with pitfalls.
Endrick’s total agreement is not enough
The target is none other than Endrick, the Brazilian striker for Real Madrid. Barred by fierce competition with Kylian Mbappé and Gonzalo Garcia, the young 19-year-old player is looking for a base for the second part of the season. Its objective is clear: to obtain playing time with a view to the 2026 World Cup. OL appears to be the ideal destination. A direct exchange with coach Paulo Fonseca finally convinced him. He likes the Lyon project, and he informed his managers of his wish to join Ligue 1 in January. He prefers this destination rather than the Premier League. On paper, everything seems aligned.
However, a major player in the matter is not yet on the same wavelength: Real Madrid. If the Spanish club is open to the idea of a loan, they do not intend to rush. According to information from The Athletic, Madrid management is delaying and studying all options. Financial compensation for this six-month dry loan is at the heart of the discussions. Madrid wants to ensure that the operation is as profitable as possible, and Lyon’s interest has undoubtedly alerted other suitors.
Real Madrid, master of the game
This wait-and-see attitude on the part of Casa Blanca today constitutes the main, and perhaps the last, obstacle to the transfer. For Lyon, time is running out. The club needs certainty to plan its transfer window, and Endrick himself wants his situation to be resolved quickly. The player’s will is a considerable asset for OL, but it is not everything. If Real Madrid decides to raise the stakes or favor another destination, Lyon will find itself helpless.
The ball is therefore entirely in Madrid’s court. Lyon leaders must now find the financial arguments to convince Florentino Pérez to give his final approval. The outcome of this series will depend on OL’s ability to satisfy the demands of a club which has no reason to give gifts. The next few weeks promise to be decisive.
