Real Betis has initiated contact with the camp of Joselu Mato, Spanish international striker and Euro 2020 champion, who is currently without a team after his stint in Qatar. The club's sporting management, led by Manu Fajardo, is looking to strengthen the forward line with a reliable profile.
The Galician striker Joselu Mato, 34, is under the spotlight of Real Betis to bolster the attack for the upcoming season. The player, who was with Real Madrid in the 2023-24 season and played a key role in winning the Euro 2020 with the Spanish national team, is free after parting ways with Al-Gharafa in Qatar.
Manu Fajardo seeks a third reliable striker
The technical secretariat led by Manu Fajardo is working against the clock to cover the departures of Chimy Ávila and Cedric Bakambu, which have left gaps in the squad. The aim is to bring in two attackers before the transfer window closes, and Joselu fits as a third striker with experience and a knack for scoring.
According to sources close to the negotiations, the club has already held initial talks with the player's representatives to assess his salary and sporting fit. The operation would be feasible as there is no transfer fee, although the salary of the Spanish international could be a hurdle to overcome.
A finisher to compete on three fronts
Coach Manuel Pellegrini views the arrival of Joselu positively, as he would provide an aerial threat and a different goal-scoring instinct compared to the other strikers in the squad. With participation assured in LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and European competitions, squad depth is a priority.
Joselu, who was part of the Real Madrid squad that won the Champions League in 2024, has an extensive career with clubs such as Stoke City, Deportivo La Coruña, Alavés, and Espanyol. His experience in Spanish football and his ability to finish in tight spaces are virtues that appeal in Heliópolis.
Betis keeping an eye on other options
While negotiations for Joselu progress, the sporting management does not rule out other alternatives in the market. The club is looking for a young striker and another more experienced one, so the arrival of the Galician does not close the door to a second attacking signing. The Betis fans, who still remember the glory nights with top strikers, are eagerly awaiting last-minute moves.
For the Betis fan, the potential signing of Joselu represents a quality leap in the offensive rotation. The player, who knows how to score in big matches, could be the piece that adds that extra competitiveness in the final third. The transfer window is closing in, and Betis is accelerating to finalise the squad.
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