West Ham approached Real Madrid for a late transfer move – report

West Ham were among several Premier League clubs that approached Real Madrid in January regarding the availability of 18-year-old Endrick, according to an online report on 4 February.

Despite their efforts, neither the player nor Madrid was interested in a move.

The Hammers went further by contacting Endrick’s representatives, but their attempts “fell flat.”

Instead, they quickly shifted focus, securing Evan Ferguson on Deadline Day after finalizing his loan from Brighton, a key target for manager Graham Potter.

West Ham’s pursuit of Endrick highlights an ambitious approach, though it’s surprising given that former technical director Tim Steidten had minimal influence in the club’s winter transfer dealings.

Endrick had long been on Steidten’s radar, with a loan bid rejected last summer. This latest approach was met with another firm refusal.

Steidten’s role in West Ham’s recruitment had already diminished, with Kyle Macauley taking charge before the German was officially dismissed.

Whether the club will revisit their interest in Endrick under the new structure remains uncertain.

Potter and Macauley have clearly shaped West Ham’s evolving transfer strategy, with Ferguson’s arrival reflecting their influence.

The young striker was well-known to Potter from their time together at Brighton, making him a logical target under the new regime.

Had Steidten secured Endrick, it would have been a major coup.

However, given the mixed results of his summer signings, the Brazilian might have dodged a bullet by avoiding a move to East London.