Levante director reveals how Real Madrid pulled off Carlos Espi transfer: ‘He has won over Florentino Perez’

Carlos Espi has made an immediate impression at Real Madrid, and the young striker appears to have earned significant support inside the club just months after leaving Levante.

Hector Rodas, Levante’s sporting director, has offered fresh insight into Espi’s move to the Santiago Bernabeu and his early months in Madrid.

Speaking on El Partit de la Una, in comments reported by Bernabeu Digital, Rodas revealed that Real Madrid’s interest was driven from high within the club before the transfer was completed.

Rodas explained that the initial approach came directly from Real Madrid chief executive Jose Angel Sanchez, who contacted Levante president Pepe.

“Jose Angel Sanchez called Pepe directly,” Rodas said, while also confirming that members of Real Madrid’s coaching staff had previously made enquiries about the striker.

The move eventually took Espi from Levante to Real Madrid during the summer, giving the youngster the opportunity to step into an entirely different environment.

His transition has been remarkably quick, as Espi has become an important part of Real Madrid’s plans this season and has already been given opportunities with the first team.

The move represents a major change for Espi away from football as well as on the pitch.

Rodas acknowledged the scale of the adjustment facing the striker but believes his personality will help him deal with the attention and expectations that come with playing for Real Madrid.

The former Levante player has also received a positive welcome inside the Madrid dressing room, something that can be crucial for a young player attempting to establish himself among experienced stars.

“Has won over the dressing room in a short time,” the Levante sporting director explained.

Rodas’ most striking comments, however, concerned the level of backing Espi has apparently earned beyond the dressing room.

The Levante director revealed that the striker has also gained the approval of Jose Mourinho and went even further when describing the reaction from the club hierarchy.

“He’s also won over Florentino,” he noted.

That is significant recognition for a player who has only been at Real Madrid for a few months.

Certainly, Espi still has plenty to prove, but his adaptation has already placed him in a strong position.