Real Madrid News
Real Madrid-linked full-back set for €25 million Bundesliga transfer
Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez excelled at right-back for Real Madrid last season, with Carvajal, in particular, delivering a standout campaign.
Nonetheless, both players are nearing the end of their careers. To future-proof the position, Los Blancos have been evaluating potential successors for some time.
One name that caught their attention was Yan Couto, who played a crucial role in helping Girona secure third place in La Liga during his loan from Manchester City.
He even claimed that he would be open to donning the royal white jersey if the club inquired, which increased the possibility of a transfer.
Couto has chosen his next destination
However, according to SPORT, reports from Germany suggest a pre-agreement with Borussia Dortmund, making it increasingly likely that Yan Couto’s future will be with the German club.
There had been no shortage of suitors for Yan Couto. Tottenham and Juventus showed strong interest, while Real Madrid were also eager to acquire his services.
But after much speculation, Yan Couto has accepted Borussia Dortmund’s offer. The package for Yan Couto is expected to be under €30 million, with around €25 million including add-ons.
Final details are being sorted with Manchester City, and the move is set to go through soon.
With Couto’s contract expiring in 2025, Real Madrid may have been hesitant to spend a significant amount on him, similar to their reluctance with Leny Yoro, who ultimately joined Manchester United.
In any case, the club will likely divert their attention toward the centre-back position, where they face a serious lack of depth.
Moreover, a late charge for Alphonso Davies cannot be ruled out in the transfer window. As such, the signing of a new right-back will likely be delayed until next year.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
