On Thursday, the 30th of July 2026, it has been confirmed that Real Madrid have already signed their replacement for the outgoing striker Gonzalo Garcia.
Earlier on today, we aggregated the news that Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Garcia was to leave the club and join Premier League side Fulham under his former Castilla and first team manager, Alvaro Arbeloa. It was also reported that Cesar Palacios would be joining him in West London.
Well, as they say, there is no rest for the wicked. Indeed not, as Los Blancos have wasted absolutely no time at all in replacing Garcia, with the signing of Levante striker Carlos Espi, officially announced late on Thursday evening CEST.
The official club statement reads: "Real Madrid C.F. and Levante U.D. have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Carlos Espí, who will be linked to our club for the next five seasons, until June 30, 2031.
At 21 years old, Carlos Espí has played three seasons at Levante, during which he appeared in 66 matches and scored 20 goals. Last season, he was named the best U-23 player in the league. Carlos Espí is an international player for Spain at the U-19 and U-20 levels.
So, just like that. No "Here we go" from Fabrizio Romano, no "bomba" from David Ornstein, etc etc. Just like that. Sure, there was some talk a couple of hours before in the Spanish press, but nothing major or concrete. And there certainly wasn't an expectation that it would be made official today.
In fact, the club have moved so quickly to replace Garcia, that they haven't even officially announced the departure of the 22 year old yet. There are a lot of things you can criticise the club for, but this was very well handled. Great stuff from all involved.
As the club mentioned in their official statement, Espi was named U23 Player of the Year in La Liga last season. In just 13 league starts, he found the back of the net 11 times, scoring once every 123 minutes, for a side who 16th in the league, level on points with relegated Mallorca.
One player who could suffer the most from this is Endrick. The idea is that he can cover striker and right wing, and his versatility could have lead to some reasonable minutes next season. However, with Espi signed up front, and Yan Diomande likely to come on the right, what happens to Endrick? Especially with compatriot Rodrygo to return at some point this season too.
Ah well, let's wait and see. Welcome, Espi.
