According to Cadena SER, Real Madrid forward Espi has been instrumental in the team's victories this season, and Barcelona had the opportunity to sign him this summer but refused to meet his €25 million asking price.

Espi played a key role in Real Madrid's opening victory against Espanyol and contributed to a 3-2 win against Elche. Without his performances, Real Madrid's position in the La Liga title race could have been significantly weaker. The Spanish forward was being considered as a potential recruit for Barcelona this season.

Cadena SER reported that Espi was proposed to Barcelona this summer as an option. However, Barcelona declined to pay €25 million for a backup player and instead opted for alternatives that better suited manager Hansi Flick's tactical requirements.

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