Fresh concerns for United as rival PL club storm into race for defensive target facing uncertain future – report

Chelsea are reportedly eyeing a summer swoop for Real Madrid defender Alvaro Carreras, but it may not be the financial boost Manchester United fans expect. Chelsea interest Chelsea are said to be on the hunt for reinforcements at left-back after Marc Cucurella sealed a shock transfer to Real Madrid. Former United defender Carreras joined Madrid last summer from Benfica. Carreras’ journey to senior football began in the youth ranks of Real Madrid, where he developed his game before being snapped up by United straight from the Spanish capital. He enjoyed a steady rise in United’s youth ranks, the highlight of which was him winning the Under-23 Player of the Year award for the 2021/22 season. However, the Spaniard never made his senior debut for United, although he went out on loan to Preston North End and La Liga outfit Granada. Things really took off for him when he signed for Benfica, who eventually made his signing permanent for €9m. Madrid signed Carreras from Benfica. His maiden season at the Santiago Bernabeu was a mixed one. There were good moments, especially at the start under Xabi Alonso. But his playing time dwindled as the season progressed. He was also involved in some scuffles, notably when he was slapped by teammate Antonio Rudiger. Carreras finished the season with 40 appearances across all competitions. He contributed two goals and three assists in this period. Cucurella’s arrival has thrown Carreras’ future into serious doubt. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are keen on a reunion. Now, AS reveal that Alonso wants him at Chelsea. The news outlet claims, “It’s merely an exploratory approach, testing the waters in terms of the potential transfer fee and the player’s availability.” “But it’s a less high-profile approach than it might seem. New Stamford Bridge manager Xabi Alonso knows Carreras very well, and above all, he would have no problem adapting to English football culture.” “Carreras doesn’t yet know directly what plans Real Madrid has for him, but the club is clear that he ‘s not untouchable.” United’s position When Carreras moved to Madrid from Benfica, United secured a tidy sum from the transfer, having inserted a 15% sell-on clause into his contract. Should any supporters be querying whether United stand to profit from a potential Carreras switch to Chelsea, the answer is negative. The Manchester Evening News confirm that United already pocketed £7.5 million from Carreras’ transfer to Madrid. Consequently, the club holds no sell-on entitlement should he complete a move to Chelsea in the future. Featured image Angel Martinez via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. 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 Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!