Álvaro Carreras, a promising left-back for Benfica, is set to feature prominently as the team faces Bayern Munich on June 24 in the final group stage match of the FIFA Club World Cup, aiming for a spot in the knockout rounds. The 22-year-old Spanish talent has been a standout player for Benfica this season and is expected to move to Real Madrid following the tournament.
Reports from various European media suggest that Carreras has reached an agreement to join Real Madrid, although the specifics of the payment are still being discussed, with Benfica seeking the €50 million release clause. However, it’s anticipated that the transfer fee may range between €30 million and €40 million, with Real Madrid preferring a payment plan rather than an immediate lump sum, which is a point of negotiation.
The impending transfer comes as Real Madrid looks to bolster their left-back position, which has been a concern due to Ferland Mendy’s recurring injuries and Fran García’s defensive vulnerabilities. Carreras is expected to sign a five-year contract with an annual salary of €3.5 million, equivalent to approximately R$ 22.4 million.
Carreras is no stranger to Real Madrid, having moved through the youth ranks of Deportivo La Coruña before his transfer to Real Madrid’s youth setup in 2017. He later joined Manchester United in 2020 for their U23 team, during which time he had loan stints with Preston North End and Granada before moving to Benfica.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that Manchester United retains a buy-back option for Carreras, valued at around €18 million, which is valid until December 31 this year. However, their plans to utilize this option and subsequently sell him to Real Madrid have not materialized.
With Carreras showing promise in his recent performances, both clubs and fans look forward to how his career unfolds in the high-stakes environment of European football.
In a bright note for transferring players, investments such as these signal a commitment to building competitive teams that can perform on international stages. Carreras’s trajectory reflects the growing trend of young talents making significant impacts and transitions in top clubs, highlighting a hopeful future for both the players and their teams.