United's No.9 crisis fuels Endrick chase as Villa watches

Manchester United face a glaring centre‑forward void, lacking a natural No.9 after the departure of a traditional target man. Veteran Michael Carrick has urged the club to pursue Real Madrid’s 20‑year‑old Brazil wonderkid Endrick, a player whose Premier League move is also being watched by Aston Villa.

United's striker shortage

United currently lack a natural No.9; Benjamin Sesko is the only true centre‑forward in the squad, while Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and the returning Marcus Rashford are deployed on the flanks or in deeper roles. Analysts have highlighted the absence of a dedicated target man as a strategic weakness ahead of the new season. The club’s inability to field a classic No.9 has become a focal point of criticism.

Veteran Michael Carrick reportedly suggested that United should target Real Madrid striker Endrick to fill the gap. Carrick’s recommendation aligns with the club’s urgent need for a centre‑forward who can lead the line. Aston Villa is also monitoring the 20‑year‑old, adding competition for his signature.

Arsenal and Aston Villa battle for Real Madrid prodigy Endrick

Endrick's profile and transfer landscape

Real Madrid paid £50 million to secure Endrick from Palmeiras when he was just 16, but at 20 he has struggled to break into the Los Blancos first‑team, with Kylian Mbappé firmly ahead in the pecking order. Endrick spent the second half of last season on loan at Lyon, recording 16 goal contributions – eight goals and eight assists – in 21 games. Spanish outlet AS both Roma and Aston Villa have expressed interest, the latter looking to replace Morgan Rogers after his record £117 million move to Chelsea.

Decision factors for United

Former Venezuela international Ale Moreno said, “I really do think that Real Madrid could use Endrick this season. So, if I were Endrick, I actually would consider staying at Real Madrid.” He added, “But if the question is about where he would go… we’ve talked a lot about Manchester United… it makes sense to have a player with a profile of Endrick.” Steve Nicol argued that Endrick must join a club where he is guaranteed regular minutes, suggesting Fulham as a possible destination and warning, “Somebody like Endrick has to go somewhere where he’s going to play all the time, otherwise what’s the point of moving away from Real Madrid?”

United would need to assure Endrick of consistent starts, a factor reportedly tied to whether José Mourinho can guarantee him minutes. With Villa and Roma also in the mix, the final decision may hinge on the Premier League club’s ability to offer Champions League football and a clear No.9 role. Securing the Brazil wonderkid could resolve United’s striker shortage while reinforcing their attack for the upcoming season.