Real Madrid have been working hard for several weeks to strengthen the defense before the Club World Cup. After finalizing Huijsen's arrival, the focus is now on Álvaro Carreras, the left-back who could become the new occupant of Bernabéu.
Álvaro Carreras has shown complete willingness to wear white and has reportedly already given the green light to Florentino Pérez's proposal. Xabi Alonso is one of the main driving forces behind the signing and trusts Carreras will be a key piece for the defense.
However, the negotiation doesn't depend only on the club and Carreras, but also on Benfica. The Portuguese seem unwilling to lower the price, which is prolonging the process more than desired.
the economic factor: offers and limits
According to the newspaper AS, Real Madrid have set a maximum amount to close the deal: €30 million. This is the amount the club is willing to pay to sign Carreras.
Meanwhile, Benfica are looking to get close to €50 million for the left-back. This difference between the two figures has caused a stalemate in the talks.
Madrid keep their position firm and aren't willing to exceed the set limit. The deal, therefore, depends on Benfica's willingness to accept the offer or lower their demands.
the rush to close before the Club World Cup
The recent Copa final played by Benfica marked a turning point for Real Madrid. The club had that date marked to speed up negotiations and send a firm offer.
According to journalist Josep Pedrerol, the signing "is very close," but everything depends on the parties reaching an economic understanding. Florentino Pérez wants to close Carreras's signing this week for the Club World Cup, where Xabi Alonso will count on him.
patience and strategy in the white boardroom
Although there is urgency to bring in the left-back, Madrid are acting cautiously. They don't want to inflate a deal they consider too expensive or pay a price that doesn't fit their plans.
They know the player's willingness and the pressure that puts on Benfica, but they keep calm. They trust that, sooner or later, a satisfactory agreement will be reached.
Álvaro Carreras's signing is hanging in the air, but the next few hours could be key for Real Madrid to get the reinforcement they're seeking without breaking their economic strategy.