Real Madrid has managed to finalize, after negotiating longer than desired, a signing that seemed straightforward. Álvaro Carreras will soon wear the jersey of the club he loves, aiming to be available for the Club World Cup. In a process that was far from simple, Benfica has ultimately given the green light to the complicated departure, receiving the full amount of his release clause.
This way, Real Madrid will pay the 50 million euros that Benfica has consistently demanded, but with one caveat. The plan is to pay the price of his clause, but split it into different payments to make the operation easier. Although the Portuguese side wouldn't budge, Álvaro Carreras's involvement in the negotiation has proved crucial.
The idea was for this deal to be closed last week, but it hasn't been possible until now. At times, it was even thought that the deal would fall through and other alternatives were considered. Nevertheless, everything has been solved and Álvaro Carreras will end up wearing Madrid's jersey. There can't be any tricks or hidden clauses, since Benfica is listed on the stock exchange and is required to disclose all the details of the agreement.
Álvaro Carreras: Salary and details of his contract with Real Madrid
Álvaro Carreras returns to Real Madrid in grand style. According to Madrid-Barcelona, the 22-year-old left-back will sign a six-season contract, until June 2031, with a gross annual salary of 9 million euros (€9 million) plus performance bonuses. After shining at Benfica, where he has established himself as one of the most promising wing-backs in Europe, the academy graduate returns home. He does so with the mission of competing for a spot in Xabi Alonso's starting eleven.
Trained at La Fábrica and with experience in English soccer with United, Álvaro Carreras has taken a step forward this season in Portugal. His defensive ability, physical projection, and tactical maturity have convinced the white club to fully commit to his return. Real Madrid needed to strengthen the left flank and has found in him an option for both the present and the future.
The signing will be officially completed in the coming hours and Carreras is expected to join before the Club World Cup. Madrid won't sign another left-back: they trust Álvaro Carreras to compete head-to-head with Fran García and be important in Xabi Alonso's new project.