Real Madrid has completed the signing of Spanish striker Joselu on a season-long loan from Espanyol. The deal includes an option for Real Madrid to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.
Joselu, 33 years old, had an impressive season in La Liga despite his team's relegation, finishing as the league's third-highest scorer with 16 goals. He also contributed to Spain's successful Nations League campaign by finding the back of the net.
This acquisition comes as Real Madrid bids farewell to striker Karim Benzema, who recently moved to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad. Joselu's arrival aims to fill the void left by the departure of the Ballon d'Or-winning French forward, who is regarded as the club's second-highest scorer of all time.
Rumors suggest that Real Madrid has been eyeing Tottenham and England captain Harry Kane as the preferred replacement for Benzema.
Returning to the Spanish capital, Joselu had previously been part of Real Madrid's youth academy in 2010. He made his debut for the first team in 2011, scoring a goal just three minutes after coming off the bench against Almería.
After leaving Real Madrid in 2012, Joselu played in both the Bundesliga and the Premier League. He accumulated 10 goals in the English top flight, representing Stoke City and Newcastle United, before returning to Spain in 2019 with Alaves.
Joselu joined Espanyol before the start of the 2022-23 season, where he impressed by finishing behind only Robert Lewandowski and Benzema in the La Liga scoring charts. This led to his international debut for Spain in March, further highlighting his potential and talent.