Real Madrid have completed the signing of Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, securing the 22-year-old left-back on a six-year deal. The former youth academy player returns after impressing in Portugal, becoming the club’s fourth signing of the summer ahead of the new La Liga campaign.
Real Madrid have officially completed the signing of Spanish full-back Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, bringing the 22-year-old back to the Santiago Bernabéu on a six-year deal. The agreement, which had been in the works for several weeks, was delayed until after the Club World Cup due to Benfica’s reluctance to lower their financial demands.
Madrid Reunite with Former Academy Prospect
Carreras returns to the Spanish capital five years after leaving the club’s youth setup. Originally signed from Deportivo La Coruña at the age of 14, he spent three years in Madrid’s academy before departing for Manchester United in 2020. While he never made a senior appearance for the Red Devils, Carreras earned recognition as their U23 Player of the Season in 2021–22.
After a loan spell with Granada failed to launch his first-team career, it was in Lisbon where Carreras truly found his footing. His performances on loan at Benfica earned him a permanent deal earlier this year, and he went on to win the Portuguese League Cup in 2024.
Negotiations Stalled Before Club World Cup
Real Madrid’s interest in Carreras reignited earlier this summer, but Benfica president Rui Costa stood firm on the €50 million release clause, stalling the deal before the Club World Cup. Club president Florentino Pérez had hoped to seal the move in time for the global tournament, but the two sides only reached a breakthrough after Madrid’s campaign had concluded.
The delay didn’t diminish Madrid’s interest. Coach Xabi Alonso had identified Carreras as a key target to add depth and dynamism to the left side of defence heading into the 2025–26 season.
Official Announcement and Presentation Detail
In a statement released on Monday, Real Madrid confirmed the transfer and outlined Carreras’ return:
“Real Madrid CF and Sport Lisboa e Benfica have reached an agreement for the transfer of Álvaro Carreras, who remains tied to our club for the next six seasons, until June 30, 2031.”
The club added that Carreras would be officially presented at Real Madrid City on Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. local time.
A Busy Summer at the Bernabé
Carreras becomes Madrid’s fourth summer acquisition as Xabi Alonso continues to shape his squad. He joins Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, rising Argentine star Franco Mastantuono from River Plate, and England international Trent Alexander-Arnold, who made a high-profile switch from Liverpool.
The squad is quickly coming together ahead of Los Blancos’ La Liga opener against Osasuna next month.
