Real Madrid has made a significant addition to its squad by signing 21-year-old forward Carlos Espí from Levante for €25 million. The deal, which includes a five-year contract, was finalized after Real Madrid activated Espí's release clause. This transfer marks a historic moment for Levante, as it is the highest transfer fee received for a player developed through their academy.

Carlos Espí, standing at 1.94 meters, is recognized for his physical presence on the field and his ability to play as a traditional center-forward. He excels in aerial duels, positioning, and finishing within the penalty area, providing a different option compared to the more mobile forwards typically seen in Real Madrid's lineup.

Having made his first-team debut in February 2024, Espí has accumulated 66 appearances for Levante, scoring 20 goals, including 11 during the 2025/26 season. His impressive performance earned him the title of the best U23 player in La Liga last season, outshining several notable young talents. Espí has also represented Spain at the U19 and U20 levels and was included in the preliminary squad for the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Real Madrid acted swiftly to secure Espí after reaching an agreement to sell Gonzalo Garcia to Fulham for approximately £34 million. A portion of this transfer fee was allocated to bring Espí to the Bernabeu, indicating the club's strategy of blending established stars with promising young talent.

At Real Madrid, Espí will compete for playing time in the attacking line and will serve as a backup for superstar Kylian Mbappe. His size and ability to operate effectively in the penalty area could provide coach Jose Mourinho with a valuable option in matches requiring a more direct playing style.

This signing is part of Real Madrid's broader strategy during the summer transfer window, following the acquisitions of Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva, Denzel Dumfries, and Ibrahima Konate. The club's commitment to bringing in a young forward highlights its focus on long-term planning, ensuring a strong future while still competing at the highest level.