Real Madrid Secure Álvaro Carreras in €50 Million Summer Transfer

Real Madrid have signed Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, paying his €50 million release clause. The left-back has agreed to a six-year contract until 2031. Carreras wanted only Real Madrid, while head coach Xabi Alonso made him his only target for that position.

WHAT HAPPENED IN NEGOTIATIONS?

Real Madrid chose Álvaro Carreras as their only option for left-back. Talks with Benfica were difficult, as the Portuguese club rejected all offers and wanted the full release clause payment. Carreras, who started in Madrid’s academy and had a great 2024-25 season at Benfica, wanted to join Real despite other interests. No other options were explored, as Xabi Alonso called Carreras his “key solution.” Finally, Real Madrid agreed to a €50 million fee. Carreras will be presented at Ciudad Real Madrid on Tuesday to start the new season.

WHY THIS TRANSFER MATTERS

Real Madrid’s defense faced criticism after a 2024-25 season without trophies. They finished second in LaLiga, behind Barcelona, and did not win the Copa del Rey or Champions League. Neither Ferland Mendy nor Fran García performed consistently, as they dealt with injuries. Carreras was seen as Benfica’s best defender, with 32 Primeira Liga appearances and 10 in the Champions League. He was praised for his reliability and tactical awareness, and he won the Portuguese League Cup with Benfica, being recognized as one of Spain’s top under-21 players.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Real Madrid want to improve their defense for the current season, and have had a winning start, with four wins from four matches in La Liga and another win in their Champions League opener. They finished second in LaLiga, four points behind the winners, and seek to enhance their squad to challenge for domestic and European titles. Carreras will compete for a starting role, with Obrador expected to contribute to squad depth. Madrid’s next game this season is against Espanyol, who ballted against relegation but are having a great start with 10 points from four matches, level on points with teams like Barcelona. With Xabi Alonso focusing on defensive strength, fans hope Carreras is the missing piece for another title challenge.