Stoke flop lined up for sensational Real Madrid transfer as club look for Benzema competition
STOKE reject Joselu is reportedly being eyed up for a sensational return to Real Madrid.
The Spanish forward, 33, has enjoyed a superb few years back in Spain after a difficult time in the Premier League.
Joselu has been superb for a struggling Espanyol side this seasonEPA
During his stint in England, he registered just four goals in 27 games for Stoke, before he joined Newcastle where he hit the back of the net on seven occasions across two seasons.
But since heading back to his home country, Joselu has impressed in LaLiga.
His 36 goals in 113 appearances for Alaves earned him a move to Espanyol.
And while the Catalan club are battling relegation, he has still managed to net 16 times in 34 appearances this season.
Joselu, who scored twice in two appearances for Real Madrid in 2011, was also called up to the Spain squad in March – where he netted twice on his debut against Norway.
According to Relevo, he is now the subject of interest from Real Madrid as they seek competition for star striker Karim Benzema.
Carlo Ancelotti‘s men are set for a disappointing season after being beaten to the league title by Barcelona and suffering a Champions League semi-final exit at the hands of Manchester City.
They did win the Copa del Rey, but that is not expected to satisfy Real bosses.
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Benzema, 35, has enjoyed another strong season with 29 goals – albeit 15 fewer than his 2021/22 campaign.
And Los Blancos bosses are discussing the idea of bringing Joselu in to support the talismanic Frenchman.
The Spanish international’s contract with Espanyol runs until 2025.
He was signed on a free transfer last summer after his Alaves deal expired.
Meanwhile, three defeats in five LaLiga games have seen Real Madrid drop below Atletico Madrid to third in the table.
