Real Madrid are continuing their rapid rebuild in anticipation of Xabi Alonso’s arrival, with another defensive move being lined up in a transfer that could have implications on Manchester United.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s free transfer from Liverpool is just awaiting a formal announcement, while Dean Huijsen’s arrival is on the verge of completion after Real agreed to pay the Bournemouth defender’s £50 million (€59m) release clause.
Real have accelerated their transfer plans amid the imminent appointment of Alonso, who is set to replace Carlo Ancelotti as manager in time for this summer’s Club World Cup.
Carreras joined Benfica from Man Utd in 2024 but is said to be ‘determined’ to return to Real, having come through their academy, with Real now negotiating with the Portuguese side to try and sign him for less than his €50m release clause.
The player was targeted due to Alonso’s encouragement, with the incoming manager said to be having a significant say in recruitment, while Real are aware that success in the Club World Cup will benefit them financially, hence why they are aiming to arrive at the tournament with the strongest possible squad.
Man Utd count cost of under value sale
Carreras’ move to Real could be considered a blow for Man Utd, who have a buy-back clause on the 22-year-old worth a reported €18m.
While United are not looking to sign Carreras for their squad after bringing in Patrick Dorgu in January, there was speculation that the Premier League side would activate their buy-back clause and then sell the Spaniard to Real for €35m to net them a quick profit.
However, such a move would seemingly violate FIFA rulings if it happened in the same transfer window, leaving United to watch in frustration as they miss out on a windfall from a player whom they sold for just €6m last summer.
The next few weeks are said to be ‘key’ for the transfer, with Benfica allegedly looking to sign Girona’s Miguel Gutierrez – another former Real Madrid youngster and potential target – as a replacement before Carreras is allowed to rejoin his boyhood club.
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