There is not always the need for galactics to make the difference in Madrid. Sometimes a man in the shade is enough, capable of hitting just at the right time. The memory of Joselu, a decisive double scorer in the Champions 2024 League semi-final, still hovers on Casa Blanca. Having left for Qatar since he left a paradoxically enormous void. Two years later, Real may have found its natural heir in this special post-additional post.
A profile to the Joselu, precious and underestimated
His name? Ante Budimir. At 33, the Croatian striker of Osasuna ticks all the boxes of the luxury replacement. Experienced, efficient, silent in the media but noisy on the field, he scored 54 goals in 130 games in the Rojillos jersey. No frills in his game, but a sharp sense of goal, solidity in duels, and a perfect knowledge of Liga terrains. The ideal profile to enter the last quarter of an hour and switch a meeting.
Its name circulates behind the scenes on the side of Valdebebas, while Real Madrid is looking for a cheap option to strengthen its offensive bench. With a release clause set at 8 million euros, Budimir offers a simple and reliable solution. The interested party, for his part, does not close the door. “I understand that there can be an interest”, he recognized sobriety in Sportske Novostiwhile ensuring that the time is relaxing after a successful season.
Real: Joselu Plane's shadow, targeted Budimir
Budimir, efficiency and experience in liga
And as often among Merengues, national connections count. The name of Luka Modric hovers above this file. The Croatian captain, who is about to leave Madrid, may well transmit the relay to his compatriot. In the history of the club, Croatian players have often left their footprint, from Davor Suker to Robert Prosinecki, via Mateo Kovacic.
Budimir would not come to be a star. But like Joselu, he could become an unexpected hero. And in a plethoric but often orphan workforce of a real B plan in attack, this type of profile could be more precious than it seems.
