Real Madrid Targets Álvaro Carreras for Key Left-Back Position

Madrid, Spain — Real Madrid is intensifying efforts to secure Álvaro Carreras, a 22-year-old left-back from Benfica, as they prepare for the next season and the upcoming Club World Cup.

Sources indicate that Carreras, known for his pace and defensive capabilities, has emerged as a top priority for the club. With Xabi Alonso set to take charge of Real Madrid on June 1, strengthening the defense has become urgent.

The player has drawn attention due to his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining strong defensive work. He has become a standout performer in Portugal, showcasing his skills throughout the season.

Carreras’s buyout clause is set at 50 million euros, but Real Madrid aims to negotiate with Benfica to lower this amount. Complicating matters, Manchester United has a preferential purchase option of 18 million euros that expires on December 31.

Real Madrid’s management is determined to bypass Manchester United and engage directly with Benfica. However, United’s involvement remains a concern as Carreras reportedly prefers to avoid a return to England.

Born in La Coruña, Carreras developed through the Deportivo youth system before joining Real Madrid’s academy in 2017. He later moved to Manchester United’s youth setup, where he gained essential experience before being loaned out to Preston North End.

Since joining Benfica last summer, he has established himself as a starter, demonstrating tactical maturity and physical prowess. His impressive performances have caught the eye of several top clubs, including Real Madrid.

If negotiations do not result in Carreras’s acquisition, Real Madrid is considering alternatives. Among them is Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth, who has impressed in the Premier League. The prospect of rekindling ties with Theo Hernández, now with AC Milan, has also been mentioned, but he is not the main target.

This busy transfer period reflects Real Madrid’s commitment to bolstering its squad under Alonso’s leadership, with Carreras’s name prominently featured alongside other defensive options. Key developments in the ongoing negotiations are expected soon.