You can’t say no to Madrid — Spanish striker Espí

Carlos Espí, a 21-year-old Spanish striker, recently opened up about his transfer from Levante to Real Madrid last summer. The young player explained how close he came to signing with English clubs before Real Madrid swooped in and signed him within 48 hours. Espí, who had a breakout season with Levante, had attracted interest from Premier League sides but was ultimately shut down by Real Madrid's interest, triggered by the departure of Gonzalo García and José Mourinho's request for a physical, aerial target man.

The move, which included Madrid paying Espí's €25 million release clause, resulted in a five-year deal that has seen him embrace life at the Bernabéu, even if his minutes have been limited. Despite the whirlwind transfer, Espí remains determined to fight for opportunities under Mourinho and has praised the manager's combination of closeness and high standards.

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