Real Madrid Signs Young Striker Carlos Espí from Levante in Surprise €25M Deal

Real Madrid has officially announced the signing of 21-year-old Spanish striker Carlos Espí from Levante UD, completing a swift transfer that underscores the club's aggressive summer recruitment drive.The forward, who joined Levante's youth setup in 2022, has signed a five-year contract until June 2031 after Madrid triggered his €25 million release clause. The deal was wrapped up in just hours on Thursday, coinciding with the departure of fellow striker Gonzalo García to Fulham.

Standing at 1.94m, Espí impressed as one of La Liga’s breakout stars last season. He scored 11 league goals in 25 appearances, becoming Levante’s top scorer and playing a pivotal role in the club’s survival. His performances earned him the La Liga Under-23 Player of the Year award and call-ups to Spain’s U-19 and U-20 teams.

Coach José Mourinho gains a powerful Plan B option — a tall, physical No. 9 adept at hold-up play and aerial duels — to complement stars like Kylian Mbappé and Endrick. Espí’s arrival marks Real Madrid’s fifth incoming transfer this window, following deals for Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, Bernardo Silva, and Marc Cucurella.The move highlights Madrid’s strategy of securing high-potential Spanish talent at value prices while rebuilding the squad. Espí is expected to add depth and competition in attack as Los Blancos prepare for the new campaign.