Real Madrid has signed Spanish defender Alvaro Carreras from Benfica in a deal worth £43 million, with the player committing to a six-year contract. 

The 22-year-old left-back returns to Real Madrid, where he spent three years in the youth setup from 2017 to 2020, after a stint at Manchester United and loan spells at Preston and Granada.

Carreras joined Benfica in January 2024 and helped the Portuguese club finish second in the top-flight last season. He was also part of Benfica’s squad at the Club World Cup, where he started against Boca Juniors and Auckland City in the group stage. 

Carreras’ impressive performance caught the attention of Real Madrid, who have been looking to strengthen their defense.

The transfer marks Real Madrid’s fourth signing of the summer, following Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Franco Mastantuono. 

Carreras will compete with Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia for the left-back position, although Mendy’s current injury status might give Carreras an edge.

Manchester United, who signed Carreras in 2020 but failed to give him a first-team debut, will benefit from a sell-on clause in the deal. 

The exact percentage of the profit share is yet to be disclosed. United had considered re-signing Carreras in January but opted for Patrick Dorgu instead.

Carreras’ presentation at Real Madrid will take place on Tuesday, and he will be an integral part of Xabi Alonso’s new-look backline. 

With 68 appearances and 10 goal contributions for Benfica, Carreras brings valuable experience and skill to the Spanish giants.

Real Madrid’s signing of Carreras is part of their broader effort to rebuild after a disappointing 2024-25 campaign. With a strong squad and talented players, Los Blancos are looking to make a statement in the upcoming season.

The Los Blancos finished third place at the FIFA Club World Cup where they lost to PSG in embarrassing manner.