Yes, Real Madrid still needs a number 9 player, because Joselu performance is not very satisfactory. On the other side, the current rumors are that Real Madrid will recruit Mbappe in this winter transfer window. Hopefully Real Madrid offer to Mbappe is true and not just a rumor, to sharpen the attack line Real Madrid must immediately recruit him. But Real Madrid plans are quite good, they have secured the services of talented wonderkid Endrick Felipe in the new season and that young man will play for Real Madrid at next.
The number 9 jersey has not yet been filled in the squad and maybe Real Madrid is still keeping this jersey number for an attack that really has the same abilities as the previous wearer. Joselu is not projected for the long term because he was bought only to replace the striker who was vacant in the previous season's transfer window. Joselu's ability has not been able to adapt to the schemes and strategies implemented by Ancelotti because several opportunities he was given failed to be executed as the coach hoped.
Endrick Felipe is indeed the youngest player bought by Real Madrid and he will only be able to play next season. If Mbappe is successfully brought to Real Madrid, Los Blancos' front line duo will be even more terrifying. Let's just wait and see what steps Real Madrid will take in the future and hopefully Mbappe will be a priority purchase.
The current situation is very confusing. On one hand, Real Madrid needs a number 9 but they are performing well without them. On other hand, despite these rumors, I don't think Real Madrid would sign Mbappe after he kind of betrayed Real Madrid a few years ago and signed a deal with PSG. Everyone was thinking that Real Madrid got him but he said otherwise. It makes everything confusing.
Real Madrid are doing well without a number 9 right now. Joselu is doing kind of good but he is not a world class player after all. The rumors are not strong either about Mbappe coming to Real Madrid. Endrick Felipe won't be coming this season as far as I know. Things are getting very interesting and I will be watching every moment of it.