Real Madrid have reportedly reached a decision over whether to sign Joselu on a permanent deal at the end of the season.
When Karim Benzema revealed that he wanted to move to the Saudi Pro League last summer, Los Blancos were required to find a short-term solution with the possibility of Kylian Mbappe arriving the following year.
A loan move for Espanyol forward Joselu proved to be their choice, taking advantage of their relegation to the second tier and the player wanting to move to a club that he has a close affinity to.
Acquiring the services of the former Stoke City frontman has been one of Real's shrewdest pieces of business in recent memory, with the 34-year-old having established himself as an effective option in the final third.
Sixteen goals and three assists have been contributed from his 47 appearances in all competitions, most notably the recent double during the closing minutes of Real Madrid's dramatic 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-finals.
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Real Madrid make a decision...with a catch
Taking up the €1.5m (£1.3m) option in the loan agreement comes with its complexities, with Mbappe still perceived to be on the brink of being confirmed as a Real player in due course.
Furthermore, Endrick will also complete his transfer from Palmeiras, with the 17-year-old expected to be used as a regular first-teamer during 2024-25.
With Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior also in Real's attacking ranks, it effectively leaves Joselu as fifth choice and facing the prospect of far fewer minutes.
Nevertheless, according to Relevo, as per Sport, Real intend on signing Joselu on a permanent basis once this season has reached a conclusion.
The report suggests that Joselu and manager Carlo Ancelotti are each in favour of continuing their relationship, yet Real are not overly against a sale later in the summer transfer window.
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Joselu left in limbo?
Such a stance effectively leaves Joselu in limbo, unless he takes the decision to remain at the Bernabeu regardless of whether any offers arrive in due course.
Given Joselu's veteran status, Real do not stand to make a substantial profit by cashing in, and a lengthy season on the back of Euro 2024 and the Copa America may make it be deemed wise for Real to retain his services.
Real are in a strong financial position where they do not necessarily have to generate a fee for Joselu, nor do they have to get him off their wage bill.
That said, regardless of whether they win the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund or not, Real are due to pay substantial add-ons from previous deals to at least one other club, with £5m already due to be sent to Chelsea.
Darren Plant
