Aston Villa may have been handed encouragement in their pursuit of Endrick after Napoli reportedly showed little interest in signing the Real Madrid forward.
Unai Emery’s side are exploring a loan move for the Brazilian as Villa look to add another attacking option before the transfer window closes.
Real Madrid are also assessing potential destinations for the 20-year-old, and Quotidiano Sportivo reports that Endrick has now been offered to Napoli.
The Serie A side, however, are said to be unconvinced by the opportunity and are currently showing little desire to pursue a deal.
Endrick transfer race takes fresh Aston Villa turn
Napoli stepping away would remove one possible destination for Endrick, although Villa still face competition if Real Madrid decide another loan is the best route for his development.
Roma have also been linked with the Brazil international and can offer Champions League football this season.
ReadAstonVilla reported on Sunday night that Villa have approached Real Madrid about taking Endrick on loan, with Emery looking for greater competition across his forward line.
The youngster spent the second half of last season on loan at Lyon before returning to Madrid following the campaign. His future has remained uncertain amid fierce competition for attacking places at the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid exploring alternative destinations suggests another temporary departure remains possible, even if Napoli are currently reluctant to become involved.
Villa would offer Endrick Champions League football and an opportunity to work under Emery, but regular playing time could prove particularly important when the Brazilian weighs up his next move.
Ollie Watkins remains Villa’s established centre-forward, while Alejandro Garnacho has already arrived on loan from Chelsea as Emery reshapes an attack which lost Morgan Rogers earlier this summer.
There is no suggestion yet that Villa are close to agreeing a deal with Real Madrid.
Napoli’s lack of interest nevertheless narrows one potential route for Endrick as Villa continue to explore whether they can bring the Brazilian to Villa Park.
