Agent shares how Real Madrid gem nearly ended up at Nice – ‘Visited the club facilities’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid forward Endrick’s career path could have taken a very different turn at just 15 years old.

According to Carlos Henrique, GYM’s agent in Latin America, the young Brazilian striker was close to joining French side Nice before eventually signing with the Spanish giants.

It must be noted that Endrick officially signed for Real Madrid at the age of 16 in 2022 after rising through the ranks at Palmeiras in Brazil.

Henrique revealed that Nice had the opportunity to secure the talented forward much earlier. When Endrick was 15, his agent visited Nice’s training facilities to explore a potential move. However, the club found it too soon to commit to the young player.

“To do good business you have to plan ahead and sign players at a very young age. For example, Endrick’s agent came to visit the Nice facilities when his player was 15 years old,” he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

Just six months later, Real Madrid swooped in and secured Endrick’s signature for a hefty €60 million.

“It was too early for us, but six months later he signed for Real Madrid for 60 million euros,” he added.

Why did the move fail?

Endrick could have joined Nice at the age of 15. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Henrique noted that French clubs often miss out on promising players due to difficulties in navigating the highly competitive player market.

This case serves as a reminder of how strategic planning and swift decisions are crucial in the world of football transfers.

“French clubs are missing out on opportunities because it’s difficult to establish themselves in this market,” he explained.

Since joining Real Madrid, Endrick has found game time hard to come by under Carlo Ancelotti. Despite appearing in 21 matches, he has only played 319 minutes.

Nevertheless, the 18-year-old has shown glimpses of his potential, scoring four goals during his limited time on the pitch.

Rumours of a possible loan move surfaced during the winter transfer window. However, both the player and Real Madrid have dismissed the idea, indicating that they remain committed to his development within the club.