Real Madrid has officially announced the signing of young Spanish striker Carlos Espí from Levante, wrapping up one of the fastest deals of the current summer transfer window within just a few hours.
Real Madrid confirmed that the 21-year-old forward has signed a five-year contract, keeping him at the club until June 30, 2031. Meanwhile, Levante described the transaction as the biggest sale of an academy graduate in the club’s history.
The announcement came just hours after Real Madrid’s interest surfaced. Espí immediately halted his potential move to the English Premier League upon learning of Los Blancos’ intent to sign him, despite Hull City having reached an advanced stage in negotiations with Levante.
Carlos Espí Transfer Details and Fee
While neither club officially disclosed the transfer fee, Levante insisted on triggering the €25 million release clause in the striker’s contract to approve the departure.
Reports surrounding the negotiations indicate the deal was sealed close to that figure, especially after Levante rejected lower offers in recent weeks to generate revenue, ease financial debts, and increase their spending limit.
The transfer progressed rapidly, transforming Real Madrid’s initial interest into a full agreement on the same day after Espí prioritized the Spanish giants over Premier League offers.
Why Did Real Madrid Sign Carlos Espí?
Real Madrid began searching for a young striker as Gonzalo García neared a transfer to Fulham—a deal set to yield the Spanish club around €40 million for 66% of the player’s rights.
Manager José Mourinho sought a traditional target man with a different profile from Kylian Mbappé and Endrick. Espí brings the dynamic previously offered by Joselu, offering aerial strength and a physical presence inside the penalty box.
Standing at 1.94 meters tall, Espí excels at hold-up play and finishing with minimal touches. Additionally, his young age and willingness to accept a backup striker role made him an ideal candidate both sportingly and financially.
Real Madrid’s interest was not entirely new; the club previously attempted to sign him for Real Madrid Castilla in April 2024, but Levante rejected the proposal to retain the player.
Carlos Espí Stats and Career at Levante
Espí joined Levante’s youth academy in the summer of 2022 and made his first-team debut against Racing Ferrol in February 2024.
The Spanish striker played a key role in Levante’s promotion by scoring 6 goals during the 2024–2025 season. He further shone in his debut La Liga campaign, netting 11 goals in 25 league appearances and 13 goals across 27 matches in all competitions.
Espí leaves Levante after 66 first-team appearances and 20 goals. He was named La Liga’s Best U23 Player and has previously represented Spain at the U19 and U20 international levels.
Real Madrid Summer 2026 Transfers
Espí becomes Real Madrid’s fifth signing of the summer transfer window, following Marc Cucurella from Chelsea for €55 million plus €5 million in add-ons, and Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan for €20 million.
The club also secured free transfers for Ibrahima Konaté following the expiration of his contract at Liverpool, and Bernardo Silva from Manchester City. With Espí’s fee estimated at €25 million, Real Madrid’s total summer expenditure reaches around €100 million (excluding add-ons and signing bonuses), with negotiations still ongoing for Yan Diomande and Rodri.
