The Athletic reported that Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso has asked the club’s management to hire a coach similar to former Real Madrid star Joselu.
There is a real crisis at Real Madrid at the moment in the striker position. Kylian Mbappé insists it’s not his position, while the only real alternative is Endrick, who has so far failed to provide the desired impact.
Alonso wants a strong backup striker
Xabi Alonso’s plan remains unchanged: to sign a strong new striker, but as a backup, while Mbappé will continue to play as a starter.
When speaking to Real Madrid officials, Alonso was clear that Joselu’s model is what the club should look for in the coming weeks.
Alonso wants a striker who is effective in the penalty area, willing to sit on the bench, and who doesn’t cost Real Madrid a lot.
Real Madrid Abandons Viktor Gyökeres
The same source revealed that Real Madrid officials greatly admired Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyökeres, and the idea of signing him had crossed many minds in recent days.
Gyökeres’ departure from Lisbon was only a matter of time, but there were many disagreements between him and the club’s management after they reneged on their promise to sell him for just €60 million this summer.
Ultimately, Real Madrid decided to abandon Gyökeres for two reasons: first, Sporting Lisbon’s management wanted more than €80 million to sell the Swedish star, and second, they would not accept being benched and not playing regularly, while Mbappé remains untouchable and will play regardless of the other names.
Potential Names to Be Real Madrid’s New Joselu
In recent days, the media has floated several names proposed as the “new Joselu” at Real Madrid.
The most prominent name is Ante Budimir, the experienced Croatian striker in La Liga, who would cost the club no more than €10 million.
It has also been reported that Alonso may be interested in working with Borja Iglesias again, although a deal would be more difficult with Celta Vigo than with Osasuna, who are open to selling Budimir.
