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12 hours ago
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A lot of changes are expected at Real Madrid after this season. Los Blancos could potentially end the season without any silverware, and a squad revamp is on the cards.
There may also be managerial changes at the Spanish capital, with Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso strongly linked with a move to his former club. The Spanish manager could reportedly replace Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the season.
Therefore, Los Blancos are looking to hit the reset button as plenty of changes are expected in the summer transfer window.
Real Madrid have been exploring the market for a left-back as the management was looking for an upgrade over Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia. They were strongly linked with Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies until he signed a contract extension with the Germans.
Hence, according to reports on AS, the Spanish outfit are plotting a well thought out move to lure Benfica defender, Alvaro Carreras. Benfica are demanding €60 million for the left-back following his exceptional performances this season.
However, Real Madrid are interested in the youngster, but they are reluctant to match Benfica's hefty asking price. This is where Manchester United enter the picture.
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How can Manchester United help Real Madrid in their pursuit of the Benfica defender?
Manchester United sold Carreras to Benfica in May 2024 for only €6 million. Since then, the 22-year-old has grown in stature with some phenomenal performances for the Portuguese outfit this season.
🇪🇸⚡️ Álvaro Carreras (Benfica, 22)
🏅 94th percentile for Progressive passes
🏅 82nd percentile for Defensive duel %
🏅 92nd percentile for Aerial duel %
Per 90 minutes, no fullback in Primeira Liga has more passes, forward passes, progressive passes, passes to final third, or… pic.twitter.com/DKl6D55gCX
Interestingly, United reportedly have the opportunity to bring the Spaniard back to Old Trafford by triggering the buy-back clause, which would cost them €18 million.
The Red Devils could then sell Carreras to Real Madrid for a transfer fee around €30-35 million. This will be a fee that will be more viable for Los Blancos than paying double to Benfica.
Interestingly, Carreras has been a sort of journeyman footballer in his young career as a pro. The Spanish defender started his youth career with Racing de Ferrol before moving to Deportivo La Coruna in 2012.
He moved to Real Madrid in 2017 and featured for Castilla for three years before joining Manchester United's academy in 2020.
The 22-year-old was a standout player for United's U-23 team and also received a call-up to the first team. Later, he was loaned out to Preston before returning to Spain for another loan stint with Granada.
In January 2024, Carreras was loaned out to Benfica, and after his impressive performances, he was permanently signed by the Portuguese outfit in May 2024.
Real Madrid scouts feel the Spain U-21 player fits the team perfectly and will be an upgrade over Mendy on the left flank. He will provide defensive solidity and has the speed to recover in tight situations. His physical stature and positioning make him a solid option for the Spanish outfit.
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