Real Madrid bring in Levante striker Carlos Espe on long-term deal to boost Mourinho attack

Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of Levante forward Carlos Espe on a five-year contract, in a surprise attacking move designed to give Jose Mourinho an extra option up front for next season.

The Spanish giants announced on Thursday evening that an agreement had been reached with Levante for the 21-year-old, who will be tied to the club until 30 June 2031.

In a brief statement, Real Madrid said: “توصل نادي ريال مدريد ونادي ليفانتي الى اتفاق بشان انتقال اللاعب كارلوس اسبي، الذي سيرتبط بنادينا لمدة خمسة مواسم، حتى 30 يونيو 2031”.

Espe, who has spent the last three seasons in Levante’s first team, made 66 appearances for the club, scoring 20 goals. His breakthrough campaign was recognised last term when he was named the league’s best under-23 player.

The striker has also featured for Spain at youth level, representing his country with the under-19 and under-20 national teams.

Alternative No 9 for Mourinho

Real Madrid’s move comes as Mourinho looks to deepen his attacking options, specifically by adding a specialist centre-forward he can turn to when matches become tight.

The Portuguese coach is seeking a profile similar to that of Joselu, who became a key figure during the 2023-24 season despite spending much of the campaign coming off the bench.

Joselu scored 18 goals and provided three assists that year, delivering decisive contributions in limited minutes. His standout performance came in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich, when he struck twice in nine minutes to complete a dramatic turnaround and send Real Madrid into the final. He later played a role in helping the club secure a record 15th European Cup.

The signing of Espe is intended to recreate that kind of tactical alternative in the squad, offering Real Madrid a more traditional striker to change the dynamic of games when required.

No impact on Endrick plans

The arrival of Espe does not alter Mourinho’s plans for Brazilian forward Endrick, who is still expected to be an important part of the set-up next season.

Endrick’s ability to operate both as a central striker and on the right wing means he remains firmly in the coach’s plans, with Espe viewed as an additional option rather than a replacement or obstacle.

Defensive priorities remain

Before finalising the Espe deal, Mourinho’s main focus in the transfer market had been to reinforce other areas of the team.

The Real Madrid manager has prioritised the signing of an additional central defender, as well as a midfielder capable of covering large areas of the pitch and contributing creatively.

However, with Espe’s move now confirmed, the club have ensured that a new forward is already in place for the coming campaign, adding depth to the attacking department while work continues on strengthening the defence and midfield.