Real Madrid and Benfica are reportedly on the verge of reaching an agreement over the transfer of promising Spanish left-back Álvaro Carreras. The 21-year-old, currently contracted to Manchester United, spent last season on loan at Benfica, where he impressed with his performances in both domestic competitions and European matches. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the two clubs are in the final stages of talks, and a permanent deal is likely to be concluded in the coming days.
Carreras’ Journey So Far
Álvaro Carreras began his footballing journey in Spain with Real Madrid’s youth academy before making a move to England, where he joined Manchester United’s youth system in 2020. A technically gifted full-back with attacking instincts, Carreras quickly gained attention for his ability to combine defensive solidity with offensive contributions. Although he didn’t make a significant breakthrough at Manchester United’s senior team, his potential was evident during his loan spells.
Carreras spent time at Preston North End in the Championship, where he gained valuable first-team experience. His performances there were notable for his stamina, intelligent positioning, and ability to support the attack. In 2023, he joined Benfica on loan, a move that has since proven pivotal in his career trajectory.
At Benfica, Carreras showcased his skills at a higher level, playing in the Portuguese Primeira Liga and in European competitions. His pace, work rate, and tactical understanding earned him a regular spot in the squad. It’s no surprise that the Lisbon club was keen on securing his services permanently. However, the emergence of Real Madrid as a serious contender has shifted the dynamics of the deal.
Real Madrid’s Strategic Interest
Real Madrid’s interest in Álvaro Carreras appears to be part of a broader strategy to secure emerging talent with potential to grow within their system. With Ferland Mendy’s future uncertain due to injuries and inconsistency, and with Fran García still developing, Madrid is looking to strengthen the left-back position. Carreras fits the profile of the kind of player the club has been targeting in recent years — young, technically sound, and with a high ceiling for development.
Los Blancos have made a habit of acquiring promising players from across Europe and integrating them through a mix of Castilla (their B team) and selective first-team appearances. Carreras could follow a similar path, perhaps starting with Castilla or rotating in the senior squad during the early stages of domestic competitions.
The potential acquisition is also in line with Madrid’s ongoing policy of signing Spanish or Spanish-trained players with high development potential, ensuring the club maintains a core of domestic talent amidst its increasingly international roster.
Benfica’s Role in the Transfer
While Benfica initially hoped to make Carreras’ move permanent, the club appears to have accepted that they might not be able to compete financially with Real Madrid. Benfica is known for developing and selling talent rather than engaging in bidding wars. Nevertheless, the club will likely benefit financially from the sale, having played a key role in increasing the player’s market value.
The Portuguese side is expected to negotiate a sell-on clause or performance-related bonuses, a common practice in their transfer dealings. This ensures they will continue to benefit if Carreras succeeds at the Bernabéu or is sold in the future for a higher fee.
The Player’s Perspective
For Carreras, a move to Real Madrid would be a dream return to the club where he began his footballing journey. Despite the likely competition for places, the opportunity to train and potentially play alongside some of the best players in the world could accelerate his development. Moreover, Madrid’s elite facilities and coaching staff could help him refine his skills to become a top-level full-back.
Sources close to the player suggest that Carreras is enthusiastic about the possibility of joining Real Madrid and that personal terms would not be a stumbling block in the deal. The fact that the clubs are nearing an agreement adds further weight to the idea that Carreras is set for a return to Spanish football.
Final Stages of the Deal
Although the official confirmation is yet to arrive, all indicators suggest that Álvaro Carreras is very close to signing with Real Madrid. The final details are believed to concern the transfer fee and potential add-ons or clauses. Once resolved, the announcement could be made swiftly, potentially before the start of the summer pre-season.
This move marks another step in Real Madrid’s forward-looking squad planning and underlines the club’s intent to remain competitive on all fronts. For Carreras, it could be the breakthrough moment he has worked toward — a chance to wear the famous white shirt and make his mark on
one of football’s grandest stages.
