Endrick faces crucial Mourinho audition as Roma eye Real Madrid striker

Brazilian forward Endrick is set for a decisive summer under new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, with his future at the Bernabeu hinging on the Portuguese coach’s assessment during pre-season – as Roma monitor the situation closely.

The 19-year-old, who turns 20 on 21 July, will be under detailed scrutiny as he attempts to convince Mourinho that he merits a prominent role in the new project at the Spanish giants.

According to Spanish outlet Sport, citing Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, Serie A side Roma have identified Endrick as a leading option to replace Ukrainian striker Artem Dovbyk, who is believed to be nearing the exit door.

Roma interest depends on Mourinho verdict

Sport reports that any potential move for Endrick will only be possible if Mourinho approves it.

The former Roma boss retains strong ties with the Italian club following his recent spell in charge there, a relationship which could help smooth negotiations should Real Madrid decide to let the Brazilian leave on loan.

Roma are understood to be exploring attacking reinforcements in anticipation of Dovbyk’s departure, and Endrick has emerged as one of the main candidates. A loan switch to the Stadio Olimpico has been floated as an option that could benefit all parties – but only if Real and Mourinho agree.

Real Madrid’s original plan still in place

Despite Roma’s interest, Real Madrid are said to remain committed, for now, to their initial strategy: keeping Endrick in the first-team squad for the coming campaign.

The European champions are instead focusing on finding an exit for Gonzalo Garcia, who is seen as the more likely forward to depart this summer.

If Garcia does leave, the club’s preference is understood to be a permanent sale rather than a loan. Endrick, by contrast, is viewed as a long-term investment whose development must be carefully managed.

A temporary move away from Madrid, however, has not been ruled out. The option of sending Endrick out on loan will stay on the table if the coaching staff conclude he requires more regular minutes to accelerate his progress.

Mourinho to make final call in coming weeks

The final decision on Endrick’s immediate future will rest with Mourinho, who will use pre-season to gauge the youngster’s readiness for a meaningful role at Real Madrid.

Over the next few weeks, the Portuguese coach is expected to decide whether Endrick will be retained and given his “long-awaited opportunity” in the famous white shirt, or whether he will be allowed to embark on a new challenge away from Spain.

Endrick’s performances in training sessions and friendly matches are set to be pivotal, with the player facing what could be a defining audition at the start of his Real Madrid career.

His situation will be closely watched across Europe – not least in Rome, where the Giallorossi are waiting to see if Mourinho’s verdict opens the door to a high-profile loan move for one of Brazil’s most talked-about young forwards.