Álvaro Carreras has returned, the prodigal son comes back to Real Madrid after five years away. He was trained in the youth academy, but in 2019 he set out on his own path far from Valdebebas. Today, that path has brought him back home, and not for a small amount of money.
Real Madrid has made his signing official after reaching an agreement with Benfica. Carreras signs until 2031. He thus becomes the second most expensive defender in the club's history.
Fabrizio Romano reveals the truth
As usually happens with major deals, Fabrizio Romano quickly shared hidden details. The Italian journalist, a reference in the transfer market, revealed the best-kept secret:
"Madrid pays 45 million plus 5 for Obrador... in installments," he leaked on his account.
That "in installments" was the key, Benfica didn't give in, Madrid didn't want to pay everything at once, negotiations went on for weeks. Finally, Florentino Pérez accepted the Portuguese club's conditions. There was no way out, Manchester United, which owned part of the rights, completely stepped aside.
An endless negotiation
Talks began in May. Madrid was looking to strengthen the left back position. The doubts about Fran García and Mendy's constant injuries made it urgent, but Benfica wasn't willing to make the deal easier.
From day one, they made it clear they wanted 50 million. Not a euro less and although Madrid tried to lower the price, the Portuguese wall didn't move. They even sounded out United to reduce the cost, nothing worked.
In the end, they had to give in, 45 million were paid in cash, plus the permanent transfer of Obrador, valued at 5, all distributed in installments. In addition, Madrid gave up the player's training rights. One more sacrifice to close the deal.
A signing with a white soul
It wasn't all about money, Carreras also pushed. From the very beginning, he made it clear he wanted to return, he waited, he endured, and he rejected other offers. His dream was in Chamartín.
Real Madrid preferred to close the deal after the Club World Cup, hoping for a possible twist, but there wasn't one. There was one certainty: the player's commitment was key. His desire tipped the balance.
Now what?
Carreras is already in Valdebebas. He has passed the medical examination and joins the preseason. He arrives as a star, but he knows he'll have to earn his place.
He'll have to prove he's up to the badge and the price. The club trusts his defensive solidity, his commitment, and his ability to adapt to both a four-man and five-man defense.
Five years later, the left back returns, this time, not as a promise, he arrives as a star signing. The challenge is greater, but so is the opportunity. Carreras's story at Madrid didn't end, it was just on pause.