Real Madrid are planning the squad for next season and Xabi Alonso has been clear with the president: He's looking for another number 9. The trust in Mbappé is absolute, but the coach believes that a striker is needed for specific moments. What he's asking for, plain and simple, is "another" Joselu who can break the deadlock in certain matches when the right conditions arise.
Xabi Alonso has put a specific name on Florentino's table: Ante Budimir. At 33 years old, the Croatian striker has been the third top scorer in LaLiga with 21 goals. He has a remarkable scoring instinct, as well as qualities that make him the striker the new manager is demanding. He's highly regarded, and in recent hours his price has been released, making him a real bargain: Only 8 million euros.
Ante Budimir: 8M clause
Diario de Navarra has revealed that, although Ante Budimir's release clause is 20 million euros, for "a certain period of time" it will be reduced to 8 "kilos". This is especially interesting for Real Madrid, who are interested in his situation and would welcome his signing.
This is a real bargain, since after that period, Ante Budimir's clause will return to 20 million. Florentino is willing to make an effort to meet Xabi Alonso's requests, trying to sign a striker different from those already in the squad.
Ante Budimir, one of the best scorers in Europe
Ante Budimir is having the best season of his career with Osasuna. At 33 years old, the Croatian striker has proved that experience and scoring instinct have nothing to do with age. With impressive numbers of 24 goals and 4 assists in 42 matches between LaLiga and Copa, he's become the main attacking reference for the Navarrese team.
Budimir has been key to keeping Osasuna competitive in all competitions, showing a consistency that few strikers can offer. His ability to hold up the ball, his intelligence in the box, and his effectiveness in front of goal have established him as one of the most reliable number nines in Spanish soccer this season.
At El Sadar, they consider him a living legend. Not only because of his numbers, but also for his commitment and leadership in the locker room. Every Ante Budimir match is a display of dedication and talent.
Although he's already past thirty, his physical condition is optimal and he still has plenty of soccer ahead of him. Ante Budimir is not only living his best moment, but he's proving that he can still be decisive at the top level of Spanish soccer. Osasuna have their goal man.