Fabrizio Romano Reveals Álvaro Carreras to Real Madrid Deal, Waiting On One Stumbling Block

Real Madrid, despite suffering a loss to PSG in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final just 24 hours prior, is nearing its fourth signing of the transfer window, targeting Benfica left-back Álvaro Carreras. The club had pursued Carreras before the tournament but failed to secure a deal at that time.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano announced on July 20 that a verbal agreement is in place for Carreras to join Real Madrid, with the club set to pay Benfica €50 million in multiple installments rather than a one-time payment. However, the deal hinges on Manchester United, who hold a buy-back clause after signing Carreras from Real Madrid's academy as a youngster; Real must wait for United to confirm they will not activate this option.

It is widely expected that Manchester United will not exercise the buy-back clause, as they recently acquired a left-back in the January transfer window and stand to benefit financially from a sell-on clause in Carreras' contract. If the transfer proceeds, it could signal the end for Ferland Mendy at Real Madrid, who is currently injured, while Fran Garcia—who impressed during the Club World Cup—may become the backup option.