Xabi Alonso skips Endrick? The unexpected striker that Real Madrid are courting

As Real Madrid prepares for the official arrival of Xabi Alonso as their new head coach, seismic shifts appear to be brewing behind the scenes. The club’s transfer strategy for the summer is already becoming a subject of widespread discussion, particularly as it relates to the future of young Brazilian striker Endrick. A new revelation from Sky Sports Germany has further stirred the pot, raising eyebrows across the fanbase and football community alike.

According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, Real Madrid have turned their attention to a new transfer target—Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, who currently plies his trade at Sporting CP in Portugal. This comes as a surprise, especially given the high expectations placed on Endrick, who is eagerly awaiting more game time and a chance to shine alongside megastars like Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior.

Florentino Pérez, the club’s long-standing president, recently reaffirmed his commitment to keeping Real Madrid at the summit of world football. After lifting the Intercontinental Club Cup earlier in the season, Pérez stated, “We will fight to continue winning titles. Having a good team is the most important. That’s what I’ve tried to do all these years, and the truth is that we’ve won a lot. The ambition is always to win more.” Yet, despite these optimistic words, Real’s 2024/25 campaign has been underwhelming.

The club has endured a challenging season, having missed out on three major trophies: the Spanish Super Cup, the Copa del Rey, and most painfully, the UEFA Champions League. These setbacks have intensified the need for a squad overhaul, which will likely be among Alonso’s first tasks once he assumes the managerial role. With Ancelotti expected to depart at the season’s end, the club is wasting no time in scanning the market for reinforcements.

Gyökeres, 26, has enjoyed a phenomenal season with Sporting. The Swedish striker has notched up an impressive 44 goals across all competitions, drawing the attention of several top European clubs. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United are also reported to be monitoring his situation. While Bayern Munich has pulled out due to the player’s €60–70 million price tag, Real Madrid remains very much in the race.

The potential acquisition of Gyökeres poses an important question: where does this leave Endrick? The teenager, who was signed amid much fanfare, has shown flashes of brilliance but is still finding his footing in a squad loaded with attacking firepower. Some fans fear that bringing in another forward could further stunt Endrick’s development, limiting his opportunities to gain valuable first-team experience.

Social media platforms have been buzzing with speculation, with many wondering whether Xabi Alonso already has a different vision for the team’s attacking line. While there’s no definitive statement that Alonso doesn’t trust Endrick, the pursuit of Gyökeres is being interpreted by some as a subtle snub. In reality, the move might be more strategic than personal.

Reports indicate that the club’s interest in Gyökeres could be linked to the uncertain future of Rodrygo Goes. The Brazilian winger, now 24, has struggled for consistency this season and might be seeking a new challenge—potentially in the Premier League. If Rodrygo departs, the addition of a physically dominant, prolific striker like Gyökeres could help maintain squad depth and competitive balance.

Even with Carlo Ancelotti’s trust and regular minutes, Rodrygo has lacked the spark that once made him a reliable performer in key fixtures. The incoming Alonso is expected to be more ruthless in squad selections, meaning players like Rodrygo could fall down the pecking order if they fail to deliver. Such a scenario might push the Brazilian to seek guarantees elsewhere, including higher wages and a more central role.

Endrick’s dilemma is further compounded by the reality of competing for minutes in a frontline that already includes global stars. While Mbappé and Vinicius seem untouchable, any new signing would only crowd the rotation more. For a young talent still learning the ropes of European football, this is far from ideal.

There’s also a deeper tactical question. Gyökeres is a traditional No. 9, a profile that Real Madrid hasn’t had in full capacity since Karim Benzema’s departure. His ability to finish in tight spaces, play with his back to goal, and contribute defensively could offer Alonso more tactical flexibility. This kind of presence could complement Mbappé and Vinicius, rather than compete directly with them.

Despite the uncertainty, Endrick remains hopeful. Sources close to the player insist he is focused, training hard, and committed to breaking into the first team. However, hope alone may not be enough if the club continues to pursue established names in his position.

Ultimately, the summer transfer window could redefine the trajectory of several Real Madrid careers. While Gyökeres is still only a target and not yet a done deal, the interest alone sends a clear message: Real Madrid are planning aggressively for the future. Whether that future includes Endrick as a regular starter remains to be seen.

For now, all eyes will be on Xabi Alonso. His decisions in the coming months—ranging from who stays, who leaves, and who joins—will shape the next era of Real Madrid. Endrick’s camp will undoubtedly be watching closely, hoping that the prodigy they believed would be the club’s next great forward won’t be relegated to a secondary role.

The noise surrounding Gyökeres, Rodrygo, and Endrick may only be the beginning. If Real Madrid is serious about reclaiming their dominance both domestically and in Europe, difficult decisions and bold moves will need to be made.

And for the fans, it’s another chapter in the club’s storied saga—one that mixes legacy, ambition, and the ever-present pressure to win at all costs.

Let the summer drama begin.