Everything was set. Juventus and Real Madrid had reached a complete understanding to finalize a strategic deal. Madrid-Barcelona.com has had access to the details of the agreement.
It was an exchange that seemed to satisfy both parties. It only required official confirmation to be released.
But soccer doesn't follow plans. Nor forecasts. Endrick was going to go out on loan this summer, but not due to a lack of trust, but rather as a matter of logic.
The white club believed that a full season at the European elite would do him a world of good. Even more so if he could toughen up in an environment like Serie A and with the demands of Juventus.
The agreement included something more: Dusan Vlahovic would go the other way. "Vecchia Signora" didn't mind parting ways with the Serbian.
At Madrid, they believed that his style would fit better with what Xabi Alonso's team needs this very year.
The unexpected blow
But Endrick's injury changed everything. The Brazilian, who arrived with the aura of a future star, suffered a physical setback just before the final agreement was closed.
A problem that, although not very serious, has been enough for the deal to fall through.
Juventus, as is logical, doesn't want to take risks. It needs a player available from day one. Real Madrid isn't willing to rush recovery timelines with a footballer who has just arrived.
The exchange, which seemed finalized, has been put on hold. Or directly canceled.
Endrick stays... and Vlahovic too
Right now, the situation has taken an unexpected turn. Endrick will stay with the white squad, at least for the first few months, while he completes his recovery. A loan in January isn't ruled out, but everything will depend on his progress and on what happens with the rest of the strikers.
Meanwhile, Vlahovic will remain in Turin. Although his camp was open to landing at Bernabéu, he won't move this summer. Juve will look for other ways to strengthen its attack, now without counting on the Brazilian.
Deal postponed, but not ruled out
At the white club, they don't consider this path closed forever. There is good rapport with Juventus and they could reactivate negotiations later on. Especially if Endrick needs more minutes and Real Madrid keeps its interest in a pure "9".
For now, everything has cooled down. The injury has broken an ambitious plan that seemed beneficial for everyone. But the market is long, and at Valdebebas they know how to wait.
What remains from this failed signing is that Xabi Alonso has Vlahovic on his list of favorite footballers.