The New York Cosmos are in a holding pattern as they continue to seek out the signature of Spanish legend Raul Gonzalez.

As they lie in wait, a mighty suitor has joined the chase.

According to several reports out of Spain, Real Madrid has joined the hunt for their former striker — and their offer is enticing. Raul would reportedly join Carlo Ancelotti’s technical staff, alongside fellow Madrid legend Fernando Hierro, bringing him back to the club of his fame.

Raúl, 37, is currently taking a break from football as he awaits the playoff stages of the AFC Champions League. Despite completing his contract with Al Sadd, he has agreed to stay on board until his club’s run is complete.

The Spanish striker has been strongly linked to the Cosmos over the past several months. Both Marcos Senna and technical director Giovanni Savarese met with Raul during a preseason trip to Dubai earlier in the year. Sources have told EOS that a deal between the parties is still likely to be done this year, giving Raul the chance of taking part in the Fall Championship season.

However, a call back to his beloved Madrid could be a game changer.

ALESSANDRO NOSELLI LEAVES THE CLUB

The New York Cosmos suffered a big loss this week, with Italian striker Alessandro Noselli leaving the club.

The 33-year-old striker returned to his homeland to be with his ailing father. While he had hopes of returning to the Cosmos, conditions have changed forcing Noselli to stay in Italy.

“Unfortunately for us we lost a good player, a good person, a part of the family and I just wanted to make it public that it’s a decision he has made,” Savarese said.

The Cosmos’ coach left the door open for a possible return.

PAULO MENDES LOANED TO VENEZUELA

In another telling roster move, playmaker Paulo Mendes has been loaned to Venezuelan club Metropolitano Futbol Club.

“We believe Metropolitanos F.C. will offer Paulo an excellent opportunity to grow as a player,” head coach Giovanni Savarese said in a statement. “We know he is going to be in an excellent environment where we will be able to monitor his progress.”

Mendes, 24, scored three goals in 16 appearances with the team.