Osasuna Boss Delivers Firm Statement on Real Madrid's Pursuit of Star Striker Ante Budimir

Braulio Vázquez, the sporting director at Osasuna, has dismissed media claims indicating that Real Madrid has reached out to the Pamplona-based club regarding a potential move for striker Ante Budimir.

During his initial years at Osasuna, Budimir delivered modest scoring statistics, but he has flourished remarkably in the last two campaigns. The 33-year-old striker netted an impressive 24 goals across all tournaments in the previous season, surpassing his 2023-24 tally by six goals.

The Croatian striker's contributions enabled Osasuna to secure a ninth-place finish and nearly earn qualification for the Europa Conference League, with surprising media reports recently claiming that Real Madrid has shown interest in acquiring the experienced player.

According to reports, Budimir's contract contains a release clause of merely €8 million ($9.4 million) for European teams, positioning the striker as an affordable backup alternative to Kylian Mbappé for the Madrid giants.

Nevertheless, Osasuna executive Vázquez has dismissed the speculation surrounding Budimir during the recent introduction of the club's new head coach Alessio Lisci, declaring straightforwardly: "Real Madrid haven't called."

Discussing various sought-after players within the Osasuna roster, including Budimir, Vázquez stated: "Some clubs have called, not just the agent. We have refused to discuss them."

Although Budimir might not be a transfer that would generate excitement among Madrid supporters, he could represent a shrewd acquisition similar to Los Blancos' successful loan signing of Joselu during the 2023-24 campaign.

Mbappé delivered an outstanding inaugural season despite Madrid's challenges last term, finding the net 43 times in 56 appearances across all competitions. However, he requires additional support going forward, and his current backup, Endrick, has struggled to offer reliable scoring depth.

Budimir, who found the net against Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid in La Liga last season, could serve as an unconventional yet practical solution for Xabi Alonso.