La Liga club director breaks silence on Real Madrid interest in veteran star | OneFootball

Ever since Xabi Alonso was unveiled as Real Madrid’s new head coach, speculation has swirled around the club’s plans to sign a new number 9, specifically, a backup striker who can come off the bench and make an impact late in matches.

Among the names linked, Osasuna forward Ante Budimir emerged as a surprise option, thanks to his excellent 2024/25 campaign.

However, Osasuna have officially dismissed the rumours. The club’s sporting director, Braulio Vazquez, addressed the reports head-on, firmly denying any communication from Real Madrid regarding Budimir.

“Real Madrid hasn’t called,” Braulio stated plainly, putting an end to speculation about the striker’s potential move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

No contact despite strong season

Budimir, who scored 21 goals last season, enjoyed the most prolific year of his professional career. Naturally, this attracted attention across Europe, especially considering his favourable release clause.

For a limited time this summer, the Croatian’s buyout clause dropped from €20 million to €8 million for European clubs and €10 million for others.

Real Madrid have made no contacts reharding Ante Budimir. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Despite that, Braulio insists Real Madrid were not one of the clubs to make contact. “There have been questions about Budimir, Sergio Herrera, Ruben Garcia, Torro…” he said as quoted by Mundo Deprtivo.

“Given his goalscoring numbers, clubs are obviously asking. But we’ve refused to enter into discussions,” he added.

No deal on the horizon

Although Budimir’s profile fits the type of striker Real Madrid are reportedly looking for, experienced, affordable, and comfortable with a substitute role, the player himself seems to have different plans.

Now approaching 33, Budimir may be open to new challenges, but his destination remains uncertain.

For now, Osasuna appear determined to hold on to their star striker. As things stand, unless Madrid change their stance or approach the club directly, Budimir will not be heading to the Bernabeu any time soon.