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Besiktas makes approach for Croatian Ante Budimir amid Real Madrid interest

Croatias forward #11 Ante Budimir celebrates scoring his teams second goal during the 2026 World Cup Group L qualifier football match between Gibraltar and Croatia, at Algarve Stadium in Loule, Faro district, on June 6, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Croatias forward #11 Ante Budimir celebrates scoring his teams second goal during the 2026 World Cup Group L qualifier football match between Gibraltar and Croatia, at Algarve Stadium in Loule, Faro district, on June 6, 2025. (AFP Photo)
June 07, 2025 11:25 AM GMT+03:00

Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas has reportedly initiated contact with Spanish club Osasuna to inquire about Croatian striker Ante Budimir, as the Istanbul club looks to bolster its attacking line ahead of the 2025–26 season.

Following the expected departure of veteran forward Ciro Immobile, Besiktas is actively exploring options to resolve its goal-scoring issues. Budimir, 33, has emerged as a prime target after an impressive season in La Liga, where he scored 24 goals and recorded 4 assists in 42 appearances, amassing over 3,200 minutes on the pitch.

Croatia's forward #11 Ante Budimir and Gibraltar's defender #06 Bernardo Lopes vie for the ball during the 2026 World Cup Group L qualifier football match between Gibraltar and Croatia, at Algarve Stadium in Loule, Faro district, on June 6, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Croatia's forward #11 Ante Budimir and Gibraltar's defender #06 Bernardo Lopes vie for the ball during the 2026 World Cup Group L qualifier football match between Gibraltar and Croatia, at Algarve Stadium in Loule, Faro district, on June 6, 2025. (AFP Photo)

According to Türkiye Daily, Besiktas has asked about Budimir’s availability and potential transfer fee. The striker is under contract with Osasuna until June 2027, and his current release clause is believed to be €8 million—considerably lower than his original €20 million valuation. Sources suggest that the price may have been temporarily reduced, potentially opening the door to negotiations.

However, Besiktas is not the only club interested. Real Madrid is reportedly monitoring Budimir as a potential third-choice striker. While the Spanish giants are not expected to offer a starting role, their interest may appeal to the player due to the club’s stature and competitive ambitions.

Budimir is particularly known for his clinical finishing and aerial strength—traits Besiktas sees as crucial in resolving last season’s struggles in the final third.

A decision from the player is expected in the coming weeks, with both clubs closely following developments.

TWEET: Besiktas contact Osasuna for striker Ante Budimir, while Real Madrid also follow the Croatian forward.

June 07, 2025 11:25 AM GMT+03:00
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