Real Madrid has made another move. This time, it's not just a simple rumor. Fabrizio Romano has delivered his usual and forceful "here we go," confirming what many had been waiting for over the past few weeks.
Xabi Alonso, who's starting a new chapter at the helm of the white club, already has his first major reinforcement. He's a player Xabi Alonso had been closely following and who has become a priority since his arrival on the bench.
He's a young full-back, with personality and range. He's one of the most promising profiles in European soccer.
A full-back who excites
Ćlvaro Carreras arrives from Benfica, where he has shown a maturity beyond his years. Trained at Manchester United, the Spaniard has managed to adapt quickly to elite soccer.
It's no coincidence that Real Madrid had been trying for some time to finalize his signing. They wanted him before the Club World Cup, but Benfica refused to let him go until its participation in the tournament was over.
Now, with the schedule clear and the deal closed, only the final details of the official announcement remain. The medical examination is already prepared.
Carreras lands in Madrid as a bet for both the present and the future. He's a player who can make history on the left flank.
A strategic operation
The negotiation wasn't easy. Benfica was asking for 50 million euros. Real Madrid, true to its financial control policy, wasn't willing to pay everything at once.
Finally, both parties reached an agreement: the total amount is kept (50 million euros), but the payment will be made in installments. It's a formula that has worked in previous signings and allows the club to keep its accounts balanced.
In addition, there was another factor: Manchester United had a buy-back option on Carreras. However, according to Romano's information, they have no intention of exercising it.
Once that's settled in writing, the player will be able to sign with Real Madrid and be officially presented.
Xabi Alonso already has his wing-back
For Xabi Alonso, Carreras's arrival is excellent news. The coach needed to strengthen that area of the field, and now he'll have a footballer who fits perfectly into his play style.
Carreras is fast, technical, with an attacking mindset but also solid in defense. He has room for improvement, but also enough experience to perform from day one.
Real Madrid is once again betting on young talent. On players who not only deliver immediate results, but can also grow within the club.