Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Endrick will stay at the club despite transfer interest. The Brazilian international recently completed a successful loan stint at Lyon in the second half of last season and has returned to Madrid.

The forward has been under the spotlight during this transfer window, with Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Aston Villa reportedly showing interest in him.

“He’s a player I like a lot and who has had many contacts from clubs that wanted him on loan or transferred,” Mourinho said of Endrick.

Endrick recently scored in a 2-2 draw against Fiorentina in the club friendly in the preseason.

The Portuguese manager added that the 20-year-old striker will be an asset at the club in the ongoing season.

“I didn’t want to loan or sell him because I like the player, and I’d like to work with this young player who has important talents,” the Portuguese manager said.

Endrick is currently out of action with a muscular issue and is expected to sit out Brazil’s international friendly against Australia on Sept. 25.

“There’s a small tendonitis in the muscle [hamstring],” Mourinho said.

“It’s a matter of prevention before it becomes a big problem. I’m not sure if he will make it to [Carlo] Ancelotti’s squad call-up for the national team, but given that one of my great friends is the coach of my players, it’s a big advantage. Carlo will call me directly.”

Meanwhile, Los Blancos started their La Liga campaign with a thrilling 2-1 win against Espanyol with Carlos Espi scoring in the 90th minute. 

Real Madrid will next take on Real Sociedad on Wednesday at Santiago Bernabéu.