Joselu was an unexpected hero for Real Madrid during his loan spell from Espanyol during the 2023/24 season. He scored 17 goals in 49 games for Los Blancos that campaign. Notably, he netted twice in a semi-final win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Real Madrid went on to win the Champions League that season, but Joselu now plays for Al-Gharafa in the Qatar Stars League. Xabi Alonso could target a similar player to the Spanish forward in the January transfer window.
Fichajes reported back in June, "Real Madrid has set its sights on Niclas Füllkrug as a strategic option for their offensive line." It has since been revealed that Füllkrug is set to leave West Ham United in January. Los Blancos may still be an option for the striker.
Füllkrug was once a highly rated forward when he starred in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund. However, a move to West Ham has not worked out for the German international. In 27 games for the Hammers, he has found the back of the net just three times.
Will Real Madrid really take a chance on Niclas Füllkrug?
It seems unlikely that Real Madrid would take a chance on a failed West Ham striker. However, a shock move between the two clubs has happened in the past. Back in 2009, Julien Faubert joined Los Blancos on loan from the East London side.
Faubert made just two La Liga appearances for Real Madrid. His time with the Spanish giants did not go to plan as he missed training when he thought he had a day off. Also, he appeared to fall asleep on the bench during a fixture against Villarreal.
Real Madrid would hope that Füllkrug makes a better impression at the club than Faubert if they do sign him. It is still a huge gamble to sign the German as he is very injury-prone. Multiple fitness issues have limited his game time at West Ham massively.
Alonso's side will need someone who can work as an understudy to Kylian Mbappe. This player will need to be happy spending much of his time on the bench. Füllkrug is now 32 and will still be hoping to go to the World Cup next summer.
Real Madrid could lose Endrick on loan as he is unhappy with the lack of game time he is getting at the club. Füllkrug may be content with a bit part role in the Spanish capital, as he will be at one of the biggest teams in the world.