Real Madrid is no longer anticipated to seek a new striker during the summer transfer window, as reports indicate that new manager Xabi Alonso has been persuaded by the rise of young Gonzalo García.
Upon joining the club earlier this summer, Alonso expressed his desire for a new striker to provide an alternative option to Kylian Mbappé.
The suggested example was Joselu, a physically imposing player who is content to spend a significant amount of time on the bench, as was evident during the towering forward’s loan period at the Santiago Bernabéu in the 2023–24 season.
Several names have been proposed, with Ante Budimir of Osasuna being the most recent, but AS reports that García may now be entrusted with the role following his impressive performances at the Club World Cup.
Watch the FIFA Club World Cup live and on-demand hereGarcía, aged 21, has scored twice in three matches this summer, with Alonso even likening the emerging striker to the iconic Raúl González. His performance is believed to have already convinced Alonso that García can meet the expectations for the upcoming season. Consequently, Madrid officials have ceased their search for a new striker.
Joselu seemingly endorsed García on social media by commenting a fire emoji on a post featuring the striker celebrating at the Club World Cup.
“[Joselu] has been an exceptional player at the club and serves as a role model for me,” García stated recently.
“The other day, I had a conversation with him and expressed that all this discussion about comparing me to him is a tremendous honor and something I never envisioned.
“He is a role model and a striker who has performed exceptionally well both at Castilla and in the first team. I aspire to emulate him.”