Real Madrid Close to Sealing Fourth Summer Recruit with €50 Million Agreement in Place

Real Madrid are on the verge of completing the acquisition of Benfica's left-back Álvaro Carreras, according to recent reports.

Discussions between both clubs commenced during the summer period prior to the Club World Cup, with Madrid eager to secure the 22-year-old's services before the tournament kicked off, however, the parties were unable to reach an agreement on the transfer amount.

Following Benfica's elimination from the Club World Cup at the round of 16 stage against Chelsea, both clubs resumed their discussions. Madrid's own elimination by Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals enabled Los Blancos to concentrate entirely on the transfer negotiations.

According to initial reports from Fabrizio Romano, these discussions have now reached a successful conclusion with an agreement struck between Madrid and Benfica.

The primary obstacle in negotiations stemmed from Madrid's reluctance to activate Carreras's release clause, valued at €50 million ($58.5 million) which would require immediate full payment. Although Madrid couldn't negotiate a reduced fee, they have managed to secure advantageous payment terms.

Therefore, Madrid will settle the complete €50 million through installment payments rather than a single payment.

Manchester United, Carreras's previous club, will have the opportunity to exercise their buy-back option for the Spanish youth international, which is understood to be less than half of that amount. The Red Devils are anticipated to pass on this opportunity.

Strengthening the defensive line has been a primary objective for new Madrid coach Xabi Alonso. Right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has arrived from Liverpool, while Dean Huijsen joined from Bournemouth to reinforce the center of his revamped defensive setup.