Transfer Rumour Unconfirmed · Widely reportedMirror FootballUnverified source· 31 Jul 2026
Hull owner hits out at Real Madrid over 'fake stories' in Espi chase
Hull City's owner has publicly accused Real Madrid of fabricating transfer tales after losing out on striker Carlos Espi.


Carlos Espí
player
Player
Carlos Espi
Position
Striker
From
Levante
To
Real Madrid
Fee
€25m release clause
What happened. Hull City owner Acun Ilicali denied making an offer for Levante striker Carlos Espi, who is set to join Real Madrid after they activated his release clause.
- Ilicali said Hull never made an offer for Espi.
- He accused Real Madrid of spreading 'fake stories' about the club.
- Hull are preparing for their first Premier League season since 2017.
“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.”
— Acun Ilicali
Hull City continue their transfer business ahead of the Premier League season, with Ilicali keen to set the record straight.
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