Manchester United 'make move to sign Real Madrid forward'

Manchester United have reportedly held talks with the representatives of Real Madrid forward Joselu.

After experiencing a tough time in England, Joselu has reinvigorated his career since returning to Spain in the summer of 2019.

Joselu netted 36 goals in 113 competitive appearances for Alaves, before he left the Basque club following their relegation in the 2021-22 season.

The forward went on to sign for Catalan club Espanyol, where he scored 16 goals in 34 appearances to finish the 2022-23 campaign as La Liga's third-highest scorer behind Karim Benzema and Robert Lewandowski.

Although he was unable to keep Espanyol in the top flight, Joselu did enough to earn a loan move to one of the world's biggest clubs.

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Man United speak to Joselu's agents

Joselu has by no means been a regular starter at Real Madrid, but has proved to be a useful addition, scoring 14 goals and providing three assists in 45 matches.

The veteran striker scored his most recent goal in Saturday's 3-0 win over Cadiz, helping Real Madrid claim three points which ultimately sealed their 36th La Liga title.

Despite being an effective addition, Real Madrid are yet to decide will exercise their €1.5m (£1.3m) option to sign Joselu on a permanent basis.

According to journalist Matteo Moretto, Man United are preparing to offer Joselu an alternative option after holding talks with the player's agent.

The Red Devils appear to be interested in bringing Joselu back to the Premier League, but the Spain international is still keen to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Even if Real Madrid decide against signing the 34-year-old, Man United will likely face competition from other Premier League clubs as well as teams in Italy and Germany.

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Why are Man United interested in Joselu?

The Red Devils have seemingly identified Joselu as a cost-effective option to help add further strength in depth to the final third.

Rasmus Hojlund has established himself as Man United's first-choice striker after arriving from Atalanta BC last summer.

While the Dane is regarded as a key player, the Red Devils still need to bring in an alternative option, with Anthony Martial set to leave when his contract expires at the end of the season.

The Frenchman has spent the majority of the campaign on the sidelines, leaving Marcus Rashford as the only other player capable of operating as a centre-forward.

Joselu's signing would provide Man United with an effective option off the bench and a potential starter if Hojlund is injured or needs to be rested.