Benfica coach addresses future of star defender amid Real Madrid links – “First there has to be an offer” | OneFootball

Real Madrid have already roped in three big signings so far this summer, but more are yet to come as the team looks to further strengthen their ranks going into the new season.

Many believe Alvaro Carreras could become Real Madrid’s fourth signing of the summer, with the club expected to resume pursuit after the FIFA Club World Cup.

Real Madrid have been linked with a move for Carreras for quite some time now, but an agreement could not be reached with Benfica.

The Spaniard is currently representing Benfica in the FIFA Club World Cup – a situation the club wanted to avoid.

Bruno Lage on Carreras’ future

Nevertheless, in a recent press conference, Bruno Lage was asked about Carreras’ future amid speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid.

“First, there has to be a proposal that Benfica can agree on. Regardless of the player, an agreement is needed,” he replied (h/t O Jogo).

Alvaro Carreras remains a top target for Real Madrid (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Bruno Lage’s stern statement suggests Real Madrid have yet to find a common ground with Benfica surrounding the purchase of Carreras.

The Benfica coach went on to point out how past players for the club have found success when leaving Lisbon.

“Then, I can see any Benfica player, as long as they have the performance of Álvaro, playing for any team in the world. Álvaro won’t be the first player to leave Benfica and make a name for himself at any European club,” he said.

It seems Lage’s follow-up was aimed to neutralise the tone of his first statement, reminding everyone that Carreras may still leave Benfica this summer.

“I can generalise and, in the last 10/15 years, any player who has left Benfica, whether Portuguese or foreign, has had the ability to make a name for himself at different clubs,” he concluded.

Real Madrid, for their part, remain confident that they can strike a deal once the FIFA Club World Cup is concluded.