Budimir and Muriqi Open to Becoming Real Madrid’s New Joselu Under Xabi Alonso
With the FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon, Xabi Alonso is already making key evaluations for what promises to be a pivotal summer at Real Madrid. While the additions of Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold are already confirmed, the club is still exploring options — particularly in the striker department.
One of the more intriguing possibilities? Bringing in a veteran “Plan B” striker — much like Joselu was last season — to complement the attacking firepower of Mbappé, Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Endrick.
🎯 Xabi Alonso Wants Options Up Front
At his recent unveiling, Xabi Alonso emphasized tactical flexibility and a desire for a team that conveys energy, ambition, and emotion. However, there’s one thing his predecessor Carlo Ancelotti arguably lacked: a physical, traditional No. 9 off the bench.
That’s where two names have surfaced internally: Vedat Muriqi (Mallorca) and Ante Budimir (Osasuna).
🔄 Veteran Strikers, Modest Clubs — Big Opportunity
Both Muriqi and Budimir are over 30, LaLiga-proven, and — most importantly — willing to accept a secondary role in the squad. For them, a move to Real Madrid would be the opportunity of a lifetime, even if it means reduced minutes and a backup role.
- Budimir reportedly has a €20 million release clause.
- Muriqi‘s price tag is around €30 million.
But both players — and their clubs — could be flexible if the call from the Bernabéu truly comes.
🧠 Low Cost, High Utility?
Real Madrid’s current stance is not to invest heavily in a backup striker, especially with the likes of Mbappé and Endrick already in the mix. However, depending on Rodrygo’s role and the tactical system Xabi Alonso ends up implementing, a pure target man could still prove useful — especially in late-game scenarios or tightly packed fixtures.
🕰️ A Long Summer Ahead
For now, the club is in wait-and-see mode, letting the Club World Cup serve as a testing ground. After that, Alonso and the board will reassess what’s needed — and if a player like Budimir or Muriqi could become the next cult favorite, much like Joselu was last season.
Both strikers are watching closely. And both are ready to answer the call.
