Former Manchester United defender Alvaro Carreras is reportedly set to join Real Madrid, who have now reached an agreement with Benfica.
Carreras moved to Benfica from United last summer in a deal worth £5.1m.
Despite showing some promise, Carreras couldn’t break into the first team under Erik ten Hag, despite productive loan spells at Preston North End and Granada.
He initially joined Benfica on loan and impressed there, prompting the Lisbon giants to make his stay a permanent one. He has been one of the best full-backs in Europe this season, managing four goals and five assists in 50 appearances across all competitions.
United inserted a £15.3m buy-back clause and there were rumours they were considering a return for Carreras. However, their January signing of Patrick Dorgu all but confirmed that another move for Carreras was off the table.
However, in recent weeks, it emerged that Madrid were seriously interested in Carreras. The defender spent three years at Real Castilla until his departure in 2020 at the age of 17 to Old Trafford.
A report covered by The Peoples Person earlier this month relayed that United retain a 20% sell-on clause for Carreras on any future deal worth in excess of the £5 million Benfica paid for him.
According to Defensa Central, Carreras’ move to the Santiago Bernabeu is close to completion, meaning United are in line for a huge financial windfall.
The Spanish news outlet claims that the “deal is closed” and pending official communication, he will feature in the upcoming Club World Cup competition.
Benfica were holding out for €50m but Los Blancos convinced them to accept €45m, which will be paid in two installments of €22.5m each.
This information has been corroborated by Fichajes.
Under this arrangement, United will net €9m from Carreras’ move to Madrid.
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
