Madrid, Spain – The “exclusive story” is now definitively confirmed: Álvaro Carreras is poised to be officially unveiled as a new Real Madrid player this week.
The highly anticipated move is in its final stages, with the Spanish left-back already having left Portugal and landed in Spain. An official statement from Real Madrid could arrive within the next 24 hours if all goes according to plan.
This swift development follows intense negotiations between Real Madrid and Benfica, particularly after Benfica’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup concluded.
Reports indicate that Real Madrid has reached an agreement with Benfica for a fee of €50 million, to be paid in installments.
This figure matches Carreras’s release clause, though Real Madrid opted for an installment plan rather than triggering the clause directly.
Carreras, 22, has been unwavering in his desire to join Real Madrid, having sealed personal terms with the club back in June.
He is expected to sign a five-year contract at the Santiago Bernabéu, a long-term commitment reflecting Real Madrid’s belief in his potential to secure the left-back position for years to come.
His return to Real Madrid’s ranks is a significant one, as he previously came through the club’s youth academy before moving to Manchester United in 2020.
After failing to make a senior appearance for United, he joined Benfica on loan before making the move permanent in July 2024.
His impressive performances for Benfica, including 52 appearances and eight goal contributions in the 2024/25 season, caught the eye of Real Madrid once again.
Manchester United also stands to benefit from this transfer, with a reported 20% sell-on clause from his previous move to Benfica, potentially netting them around €9 million.
Carreras’s arrival will provide a crucial boost to Real Madrid’s defensive options, an area new head coach Xabi Alonso has reportedly prioritized.
With the player now in Spain and formalities being completed, the official announcement is just around the corner.
