Reports in Portugal claim Real Madrid target has given no word on future – ‘He only thinks about…’ | OneFootball

According to ABOLA (via SPORT), Alvaro Carreras may publicly appear focused on Benfica, but behind the scenes, his dream of joining Real Madrid is gaining traction.

The Spanish full-back has reportedly told his Benfica teammates that “he only thinks about staying in the team”, yet all signs increasingly suggest that his return to Spain is only a matter of time.

Real Madrid are eager to wrap up the signing before the Club World Cup kicks off, a tournament where both Madrid and Benfica will both participate.

The urgency on Madrid’s end indicates just how highly they rate Carreras, who has emerged as a prime target to reinforce the left side of defence. While his commitment to Benfica is appreciated in Portugal, the sentiment in Spain is that the move is nearly done.

A lot has been said

The 22-year-old’s future has become a tug-of-war between what is publicly stated and what is developing behind closed doors. His agent, Gines Carvajal, added to the confusion earlier in May by stating, “Carreras is doing very well at Benfica and will continue to be there.”

Alvaro Carreras is expected to join Real Madrid. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

However, Spanish media paints a very different picture. According to their information, a deal worth between €40 million and €50 million is close, and Carreras would earn a salary of €9 million per year.

Manchester United complicating the deal

Yet, complications remain. Manchester United, Carreras’ former club, have a buyback clause and want financial compensation if the player is sold. The exact terms of this clause are unclear, but it could stall or slightly delay Madrid’s efforts.

Moreover, Benfica are reluctant to lose Carreras before the Club World Cup, which adds another layer of negotiation. The Portuguese club are counting on the full-back for that tournament and would prefer to postpone the transfer until afterwards.

Despite these hurdles, Real Madrid remain confident. Florentino Perez and his recruitment team is pressing ahead under their renewed transfer policy aimed at acquiring young talent with high potential, and Carreras fits the mould perfectly.