Real Madrid Secure Carlos Espí After Activating €25m Release Clause in Mourinho’s Squad Rebuild

Real Madrid have completed the signing of promising Spanish striker Carlos Espí after triggering the €25 million release clause in his contract with Levante, strengthening their attacking options ahead of the new campaign.

The move ends weeks of speculation surrounding the highly rated forward, who had also attracted interest from several Premier League clubs. Madrid acted decisively to secure his signature before rivals could make a formal breakthrough.

Real Madrid Move Quickly to Replace Departing Forward

The transfer comes shortly after Gonzalo García departed the Santiago Bernabéu to join Fulham, creating an opening in Real Madrid’s attacking department. Rather than entering a lengthy transfer battle, the Spanish giants opted to activate Espí’s release clause, ensuring the deal progressed without prolonged negotiations.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid formally notified Levante after activating the striker’s €25 million buyout clause, allowing the transfer process to move forward immediately.

The player is expected to undergo his medical examination in Madrid before officially completing all registration formalities.

Mourinho’s Influence on the Deal

The signing is understood to have been approved following a request from Real Madrid manager José Mourinho, who is continuing to reshape his squad before the start of the season.

With García’s exit leaving fewer options in attack, Mourinho reportedly identified Espí as a priority addition capable of providing greater depth and competition in the striker position.

Madrid’s swift action also prevented Premier League clubs from advancing their interest in the Spanish forward.

Why Carlos Espí Was in Demand

Although still developing, Carlos Espí has built a reputation as one of Spain’s promising young attacking talents.

His performances for Levante attracted attention from clubs seeking long-term striking options, with Premier League sides monitoring his progress before Real Madrid completed the move.

By triggering the release clause instead of negotiating a transfer fee, Madrid ensured they met the contractual requirements needed to secure the player without delay.

Timeline of the Transfer

• Gonzalo García completes his move to Fulham.
• Real Madrid identify the need for another striker.
• Carlos Espí attracts interest from clubs in England.
• Madrid activate the €25 million release clause in his Levante contract.
• Formal notification is sent to Levante.
• Medical examination is scheduled in Madrid before the transfer is finalized.

Why This Transfer Matters

Adding Carlos Espí gives Real Madrid another attacking option as the club prepares for domestic and European competitions.

The signing also highlights the club’s willingness to invest in emerging Spanish talent while maintaining squad depth following player departures. Completing the deal early in the transfer window allows Mourinho additional time to integrate the striker into his tactical plans before competitive fixtures begin.

Supporters will now be watching for the club’s official unveiling of Espí and whether further arrivals follow as Madrid continue strengthening the squad.