Real Madrid make their choice between two full-back targets | OneFootball

According to Cadena SER (via RM4 Arab), Real Madrid have identified Alvaro Carreras as their priority signing for the left-back position, shutting the door on a potential move for Alejandro Grimaldo.

After weeks of careful planning and negotiations, Los Blancos are now on the verge of securing Carreras’ signature in what appears to be a long-term investment.

The report indicates that Real Madrid have reached an agreement with Benfica for the 22-year-old Spaniard, with the deal set to be finalised before the FIFA Club World Cup.

Carreras is expected to sign a contract that runs until 2031 and will earn a salary close to €9 million annually. The final paperwork with Benfica is reportedly being wrapped up, and an official announcement is anticipated soon.

Carreras, a product of the Manchester United academy who impressed during his loan spell at Preston North End before joining Benfica, has rapidly emerged as one of Europe’s most promising full-backs.

His attacking instincts, composure on the ball, and versatility have made him an attractive profile for Real Madrid’s long-term project.

No room for Grimaldo despite public admiration

Real Madrid will not make an effort for Grimaldo. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)

While Grimaldo has been loosely linked with a return to Spain, especially given his strong performances at Bayer Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid have seemingly decided not to pursue the 29-year-old.

His name came up partly due to Alonso’s arrival at the Bernabeu next season, which had fuelled speculation of a possible reunion.

Grimaldo himself added fuel to the fire with recent comments praising the Spanish giants, stating,

“Real Madrid is a big club. My goal is to play for a big club. I’ve spent two wonderful years at Leverkusen, but every player has their dreams, and my club knows that my dream is to go to Spain.”

However, despite his admiration and availability, Real Madrid’s sporting leadership has opted to move forward with a younger, high-potential player in Carreras.