Official: Real Madrid complete their fourth summer signing | OneFootball

Real Madrid have officially completed the signing of Alvaro Carreras from Benfica. The Spanish left-back has signed a multi-year contract that will keep him at the club until 2031, the club confirmed in an official statement.

Carreras’ move back to Madrid is a special one. The defender spent three years in Real Madrid’s youth academy between 2017 and 2020 before moving to Manchester United.

Now, after a spell at Benfica, he returns to the club where his professional journey started, becoming Real Madrid’s fourth summer signing after Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Franco Mastantuono.

The transfer was not easy to complete. Talks with Benfica had intensified in recent weeks, especially after Real Madrid’s 0-4 defeat to PSG in the Club World Cup semi-final.

Madrid had initially planned to bring Carreras in before the tournament, but Benfica refused to let him go early as they also took part in the same competition. This last-minute change of plans caused some frustration at the Bernabeu.

A hard-earned transfer

Despite the delays, Madrid stayed patient and pushed forward with the negotiations. The final transfer fee is expected to be close to Carreras’ €50 million release clause.

Both clubs reached an agreement after long discussions, and the player’s wish to return to Real Madrid played a big role in sealing the deal.

Carreras was in Madrid with his family over the weekend, a clear sign that the transfer was on the verge of completion. The 22-year-old has always dreamed of playing for Real Madrid’s first team, and now that dream is a reality.

With this signing, Real Madrid have added strength to their defence, as Carreras will compete for a spot on the left side of Xabi Alonso’s backline.

Madrid have confirmed that Carreras’ presentation will happen tomorrow, after which the newly-signed player will speak to the press.