Real Madrid step up move for Levante striker Carlos Espi as Gonzalo Garcia nears Fulham switch

Real Madrid have intensified their pursuit of Levante forward Carlos Espi as they prepare for the expected departure of striker Gonzalo Garcia to Fulham in the current summer transfer window, according to reports in Spain.

Spanish daily AS says the 21-year-old Espi has emerged as one of the leading candidates to reinforce Real Madrid’s attack, with the club hierarchy looking for a back-up option to support Kylian Mbappe rather than a new headline signing.

Espi is under contract with Levante until the summer of 2028, and the Valencia-based club are said to be insisting on the full payment of his €25m release clause before agreeing to let him leave.

Hull City move under threat

The report adds that Hull City had been close to securing Espi’s signature after submitting a formal bid to Levante. However, Real Madrid’s late intervention in the negotiations has cast serious doubt over the Spanish striker’s proposed move to the English club.

Initial contacts have already taken place between Real Madrid and Levante, while the European champions have also opened dialogue with the player’s representatives.

Espi is understood to be adopting a wait-and-see approach. The forward has temporarily put all other offers on hold as he assesses how talks between Real Madrid and Levante develop.

Profile to fit Mourinho’s plans

Real Madrid believe Espi’s attributes match what head coach Jose Mourinho is looking for in his attacking options.

The club are not targeting a marquee forward, but a striker capable of fulfilling the role previously played by Joselu – someone who can rotate with Mbappe, provide him with rest when required, and offer a different type of presence in the penalty area.

Espi’s performances last season have strengthened his case. The Spanish striker enjoyed an impressive campaign with Levante, scoring 13 goals in 27 appearances across all competitions.

His contribution was pivotal in helping Levante secure their status in La Liga, and those displays have now attracted interest from one of Europe’s most powerful clubs.

Real Madrid reshaping forward line

Gonzalo Garcia’s anticipated move to Fulham is one of the factors driving Madrid’s interest in Espi, as the club look to adjust their attacking depth ahead of the new season.

With Mbappe established as the focal point of the forward line, the Spanish giants are seeking a reliable understudy who can maintain their threat in front of goal when rotations or tactical changes are required.

Espi’s age, contractual situation and comparatively attainable release clause have combined to make him a prominent target on Real Madrid’s shortlist.

While Levante remain firm on their financial demands, the player’s stance in pausing other negotiations underlines the appeal of a potential switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Talks are still at an early stage, but Real Madrid’s entry into the race has significantly altered the dynamics of Espi’s future, leaving Hull City and other interested clubs waiting on the outcome of discussions between the two Spanish sides.