Carlos Espi’s route to Real Madrid began with a Barcelona approach

Real Madrid striker Carlos Espi was offered to Barcelona before completing his move to the Spanish capital, according to Carrusel Deportivo.

Barcelona were given the opportunity to sign Espi from Levante for €25m during the summer transfer window, but chose not to pursue the deal.

The club considered the fee too high for a player who would not have been part of the first-team regulars. Barcelona also already had young forward Hamza Abdelkarim available in their squad.

Espi subsequently joined Real Madrid from Levante in the summer, with the transfer costing €25m.

The 21-year-old has played five matches in all competitions this season and has scored two goals.