La Liga forward finally addresses Real Madrid links – ‘Will leave talks to someone else’ | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso has secured many of the pieces he deemed necessary for his project before the commencement of the FIFA Club World Cup. There are, however, certain departments still in need of signings.

The centre-forward position is one such position that needs a new name and the manager is looking for a ‘Joselu’ like signing who can tick multiple boxes on a budget fee.

After all, any incoming player cannot be guaranteed a starting role which is why Real Madrid are looking at players who are at the fag end of their career. Ante Budimir is one such player linked to Los Blancos.

Budimir talks

The Osasuna veteran faced the media earlier recently and inevitably faced questions on his future and whether the interest from Real Madrid was concrete and had any substance to it.

Out of respect for his current employers, however, Budimir refused to even comment on the situation and signalled for tranquillity before jumping to any conclusions.

Ante Budimir is linked to Real Madrid. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

“Real Madrid interest? I have the utmost respect for my club Osasuna. I’m very happy where I am,” he said (h/t Madrid Xtra)

He admitted that the news was not completely untrue but did not go too deep into the matter, thus giving away nothing.

“I understand there may be some interest, but my focus was on Croatia and now it’s time to rest. I will leave the transfer talks to someone else.”

Real Madrid, in any case, will not bring in a new striker in time for the FIFA Club World Cup and any movement concerning Budimir or a number 9 is only expected after the tournament ends before the start of the new season.

The player fits the profile Alonso demands and it remains to be seen if the manager sees him as his top target.

Given his age, contractual situation and experience, there do not seem to be too many more options in the same bracket.