Real Madrid Nears €50M Álvaro Carreras Transfer from Benfica

Real Madrid is finalizing the transfer of promising left-back Álvaro Carreras from Benfica by agreeing to pay the full €50 million release clause. Although initial negotiations aimed to reduce the fee, Benfica remained firm on the amount but allowed Carreras to join Real Madrid in time for the FIFA Club World Cup, a priority for new coach Xabi Alonso. Carreras, who developed in Real Madrid's youth academy and impressed at Benfica, pushed for an early move to seize the opportunity to play for the first team. Real Madrid and Benfica agreed on conditions including the timing of the signing, with official formalization expected after the Club World Cup to allow Carreras to focus on the tournament. The deal reflects Real Madrid's strategy to strengthen their defense, especially at left-back, due to injuries and tactical changes under Alonso's leadership. This transfer is seen as a significant investment in the club's future, securing a highly talented young player for the long term.