Real Madrid are preparing to finalize their long-pursued transfer of Alvaro Carreras from Benfica, with the deal expected to be completed in the coming days following the conclusion of the FIFA Club World Cup.
The 22-year-old defender will now head off on a summer break, as sanctioned by player unions ahead of the 2025/26 season, which could push the final confirmation of his move to the Spanish capital to late July where he will join up for the final stages of preseason training.
The complex transfer arrangement involves multiple parties, with Manchester United holding a buy-back clause valued around €18 million, with United potentially bringing Carreras back and then transferring him to Madrid for a fee in the €30–35 million range.
Real Madrid are closing in on the signing of Benfica left-back Alvaro Carreras after striking a verbal agreement with him. The Spaniard has agreed to a five-year contract with Los Blancos until 2028, which will see him earn around €9 million per year.
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Player Profile and Background
22-year-old Alvaro Carreras, an attacking full-back known for his passing range and clinical interceptions, joined Portugal’s Benfica from Manchester United in July 2024. He subsequently signed a new contract with Benfica until 2029 and currently has a market value of €35.00m.
The Spanish defender has represented his country at youth levels, having played for Spain at under-19 and under-21 levels, making his debut for the under-19 team in October 2021.
Real Madrid’s Strategic Priority
Real Madrid have decided to make Alvaro Carreras their main target for the left-back spot and a deal for the young left-back ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup is likely. The LaLiga giants have apparently identified the Spaniard as an upgrade on Ferland Mendy, who has failed to impress.
The urgency surrounding the transfer stems from Real Madrid’s serious approach to the Club World Cup, with the club working hard to secure key signings before the tournament.
Recent Developments and Delays
The transfer saga has experienced several twists, with negotiations between Real Madrid and Benfica regarding a move for Alvaro Carreras having hit a standstill in early June. However, recent reports suggest momentum has been regained.
Team Talk has reported that Real Madrid is on the verge of signing Alvaro Carreras from Benfica, with the club anticipated to complete the deal following Benfica’s exit from the Club World Cup.
Fabrizio Romano’s Insights
Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Real Madrid’s excellent relationship with Benfica means negotiations to sign Alvaro Carreras will be closed soon. Real Madrid have made initial direct talks with Benfica for left-back Alvaro Carreras, and the negotiations are not likely to last forever with Real Madrid wanting the deal closed as soon as possible.
Manchester United’s Position
Interestingly, Manchester United aren’t helping in the transfer process, despite holding the buy-back clause. This suggests Real Madrid are pursuing direct negotiations with Benfica while keeping the United option as a potential alternative route.
Contract Terms and Financial Package
The proposed deal would see Carreras commit to Real Madrid until 2028, with substantial financial terms reflecting his status as a priority target. The talented left-back has a release clause worth €50m, but Madrid are looking to lower the fee.
The transfer is being driven partly by incoming manager Xabi Alonso’s tactical requirements. Real Madrid’s pursuit of Benfica left-back Alvaro Carreras is heading into a decisive phase, with crucial days ahead in talks between the European giants.
With the Club World Cup now concluded and player breaks sanctioned, the final stages of the transfer are expected to unfold rapidly. The deal is an investment in Real Madrid’s future, bringing in a young, talented defender who can provide competition and depth in the left-back position.
The completion of this transfer would mark another successful piece of business for Real Madrid, who are building a squad capable of competing at the highest level across multiple competitions in the upcoming season.
