Real Madrid’s €25m swoop on Espi fuels Hull City’s fake‑rumour outcry

Real Madrid activated a €25 million release clause to sign Levante striker Carlos Espi, completing the deal on 31 Jul. The transfer was announced amid accusations from Hull City boss Acun Ilicali that the Spanish giants were spreading fake stories.

Hull’s Tigers were reportedly in contention for the forward as they prepare for their Premier League return. The Yorkshire side had identified Espi as a target after sealing promotion under Sergej Jakirović, but Real Madrid swooped in before any formal bid could be submitted. Ilicali later clarified that Hull never submitted a formal offer for the Levante striker.

Hull have already completed four summer signings: goalkeeper Jack Butland, midfielder Hidemasa Morita, defender Matt Targett and forward Oscar Zambrano. In addition, Olympiacos keeper Konstantinos Tzolakis is expected to arrive soon, bolstering the squad ahead of the top‑flight campaign. The club also secured a £55 million bridging loan, a move that has drawn criticism but, allows early access to funds and helps the club remain competitive.

Taking to social media, Ilicali wrote: “Guys your club is big enough without making fake stories about Hull City. We never made any offer, we wish him the best in Real Madrid.” He earlier warned supporters about false transfer rumours, stating: “Dear Hull City family, we are reading dozens of false transfer rumours in many places. We are disturbed by the… use of our club’s name to gain attention.”

The Espi signing gives Real Madrid a promising Spanish forward to add depth to a star‑laden squad. The club now faces the task of integrating the 25‑year‑old striker into a team accustomed to competing for major honours.

Hull must rely on its loan‑backed finances and the recent arrivals to compete in the Premier League. The club’s ability to translate the new signings and the £55 million loan into on‑field success will be closely watched by supporters.

The story was reported by Daniel Orme, Sports Writer, at 13:49 on 31 Jul and featured Getty Images and ImagesAcun.