NewsIndia

By Ishaan Kapoor — 30 July 2026 — 3 min read

Real Madrid have reportedly initiated contact with Levante regarding their striker, Carlos Espi. This development could impact Hull City’s prior negotiations for the player, as the Premier League side had already made progress in discussions with Levante for his signing.

Levante is reportedly seeking Carlos Espi’s release clause of €25 million. The interest from Real Madrid introduces a new dynamic to the transfer situation for the La Liga striker.

Strategic Attacking Reinforcements

The move for Carlos Espi aligns with Real Madrid’s broader strategy for their attacking lineup. While there have not been many major changes in the attack recently, aside from Endrick’s return from his loan with Lyon, significant adjustments are anticipated in the coming days. Reports suggest that Real Madrid are nearing an agreement for Ivorian forward Yan Diomande, and striker Gonzalo Garcia is reportedly close to joining Fulham.

With Gonzalo Garcia’s potential departure, Endrick is expected to serve as Kylian Mbappe’s deputy in the striker role for the upcoming season. However, Gonzalo’s exit would create an opening for another player in the team’s attacking ranks. Real Madrid are looking to fill this space with a forward who possesses a profile similar to that of Joselu.

This type of player is envisioned not as a primary star, but as a forceful presence capable of assisting the team, particularly when they encounter difficulties in breaking down opposing defenses. The club’s pursuit of Carlos Espi appears to fit this specific requirement.

Mourinho’s Transfer Priorities

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has outlined his priorities for the summer transfer window, focusing on strengthening the squad in key areas. His primary objectives include securing an additional centre-back and a midfielder. These positions are considered crucial for enhancing the team’s overall balance and performance.

According to reports, Mourinho is also open to the possibility of adding an out-and-out striker, specifically someone who can operate in the ‘9’ role. This type of player, in the mould of Joselu, would serve as a “plan B” option for matches where circumstances demand a different approach. While this striker role is not currently the top priority, it remains a consideration for the team’s strategic planning.

The intention is for any new striker to assume the responsibilities that Joselu fulfilled during the 2023-2024 season. During that period, Joselu demonstrated his effectiveness by scoring 18 goals and providing three assists, with many of these contributions coming from the bench. His notable performance included scoring two goals in nine minutes during the Champions League semi-final second leg against Bayern Munich, which helped secure Real Madrid’s place in the final and contributed to their fifteenth title in the competition.

The acquisition of a back-up striker would not conflict with Mourinho’s plans for Endrick. The coach intends to rely on Endrick in the upcoming season, given his versatility to play both through the middle and on the right wing. For the time being, Mourinho’s main transfer targets remain an extra centre-back and a midfielder capable of covering ground and creating opportunities. A specialist striker, such as Carlos Espi, is being considered as an additional option and a strategic “plan B” for the demanding schedule of a long season.

The initial steps taken by Real Madrid in pursuing Carlos Espi indicate that this transfer story is still in its early stages, with further developments expected in the coming days and weeks.

Source: goal.com