Real Madrid has encountered difficulties in its efforts to sign Benfica defender Álvaro Carreras. According to Spanish media outlet Marca, the two clubs have failed to reach an agreement on the player’s buyout clause, causing negotiations to temporarily stall.
Real Madrid had already reached an agreement with the 22-year-old Spanish defender on a five-year contract. However, Benfica is insisting on receiving the full €50 million release clause, while Real Madrid is only willing to offer between €35 million and €40 million, leaving the deal unresolved.
The negotiations have been ongoing for several weeks with little progress. This has forced Real Madrid’s management to begin exploring alternative options. According to foreign media outlet The Athletic, despite the current difficulties, Carreras remains a top target for Real Madrid head coach Xavi Alonso and the scouting team. They believe the young defender is a perfect fit for the left-back position.
If the deal goes through, Carreras would become Real Madrid’s third new signing in the defense this summer, following Hui Sen and Alexander-Arnold. However, the biggest issue now is time. The deadline for registering players for the Club World Cup is June 10, and Benfica will also participate in the tournament.If Real Madrid cannot complete the signing before then, they may turn their attention to another candidate, Alex Grimaldo.
Grimaldo, 29, formerly of Benfica, has always wanted to play for a top club. If Carreras ultimately fails to join Real Madrid, the likelihood of Grimaldo returning to Spain and even donning the Real Madrid jersey will increase significantly.
For Real Madrid, this is not just an ordinary transfer attempt, but a sign of a new era beginning. Under the leadership of new head coach Xavi Alonso, the team is preparing to face new challenges. They will kick off their first match under Alonso on June 18 against Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, which will also mark Alonso’s official debut as a coach.
In summary, although Carreras’ transfer is currently facing obstacles, Real Madrid has not given up. Fans are still waiting to see if the club can secure this highly anticipated signing at the last minute.