CORNERFLICK
Real Madrid have signed Levante striker Carlos Espe, a move that surprised much of the football world and adds another young forward to their squad.
A late arrival on Madrid's radar
Espe was not among the most talked-about names in the transfer market, but Madrid moved quickly to secure him. The deal has been framed as part of the club's wider effort to identify and recruit emerging talent before it becomes widely known.
The 21-year-old is viewed as a classic centre-forward, comfortable operating inside the penalty area. At 1.94 metres tall, he has stood out physically since his early days in football.
From Alzira to the Bernabéu
Born on 24 July 2005 in Tavernes de la Valldigna, Valencia, Espe began his football education at local side Alzira before making his way to Levante.
He made 66 appearances in all competitions for Levante over three seasons, scoring 20 goals. He now joins a Real Madrid attack that includes several established stars, with questions already over how quickly he can force his way into the starting line-up under José Mourinho.