Joselu is off to Qatar! Real Madrid confirm veteran forward's departure just a day after Spanish giants triggered clause to sign him on permanent basis from Espanyol

Joselu joined Madrid on loan from Espanyol for the 2023-24 season and quickly became a key player. His contributions were significant, scoring 17 goals and providing three assists in 49 appearances. His late brace against Bayern Munich in May remains etched in the memories of Madrid fans, a pivotal moment that secured their place in the Champions League final at Wembley, where they clinched their record-extending 15th title.

Following his stellar season, Madrid exercised their €1.5 million (£1.27m/$1.6m) option to buy Joselu from Espanyol. Then they decided to immediately transfer him to Al-Gharafa for the same amount as a goodwill gesture to the player who is set to receive the highest salary (£7m/$9m) of his career in Qatar, a significant factor given his age and career stage.

After completing the transfer, Joselu said: "Thank you. It is the best and most appropriate word to express everything I feel at this moment, in which emotion and nerves barely allow me to write. Thank you Real Madrid for everything you have made me feel throughout my life. Outside and inside. Inside and outside. Thank you for what you taught me when I was a kid; thank you for giving me so many examples of greatness and humility at the same time.

"Thank you for keeping my dream alive and making it come true... I left years ago but I never left. Today I'm also leaving but in reality I'm staying. Thank you."

According to The Athletic, the deal to Qatar was facilitated by influential agent Pini Zahavi, who had been in discussions with the Qatar Stars League since February. Despite the striker's efficiency and the cost-effective option to retain him, the club acknowledged the potential impact of new signings, such as Kylian Mbappe and Endrick, on Joselu's playing time and subsequently allowed him to leave.

For Joselu, the move to Al-Gharafa represents an opportunity to secure his future financially and professionally. The Al-Gharafa deal offers a two-season contract with an option for an additional year, providing stability and security as he approaches the twilight of his career.