Real Madrid’s transfer strategy this summer has once again highlighted a familiar stance: they will walk away from any deal they feel oversteps their valuation. That approach is being tested again, this time in their pursuit of Benfica’s 22-year-old left-back Álvaro Carreras.
Despite reports last week that a deal had been agreed in principle and personal terms sorted with Carreras, negotiations have hit a standstill. The sticking point? Benfica’s firm stance on his €50 million release clause.
Carreras, who has been on Real Madrid’s radar for months, is seen as the ideal candidate to complete their defensive overhaul ahead of the Club World Cup. However, Benfica shows little intention to negotiate down from the €50m clause even though they’re reportedly open to restructuring the payment model. For their part, Madrid has made it clear they will not meet that price.
With Manchester United reportedly entitled to a significant sell-on percentage from any Carreras transfer, Benfica is further incentivized to maximize its profit. Real Madrid is not biting and is reportedly prepared to walk away if their valuation isn’t met.
The impasse has brought alternatives into sharper focus. Miguel Gutierrez, formerly of Castilla and currently at Girona, is one such name. Real Madrid still holds an €8 million buyback clause for the 22-year-old, and he remains a cost-effective fallback.
However, the most viable alternative may be Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo. The 28-year-old had a sensational season under Xabi Alonso, lifting the Bundesliga title and revitalizing his career in Germany. Importantly, Grimaldo is said to be open to a return to Spain and a reunion with Alonso, who has now taken over at Real Madrid.
Madrid’s summer strategy is focused on presenting Alonso with a fully reinforced backline ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup. With Trent Alexander-Arnold already secured for the right flank and 19-year-old Dean Huijsen coming in to bolster the center of defense, the left-back remains the final piece of the puzzle.
Carreras remains the club’s priority, but time is running out. Should Benfica maintain their hardline stance, Madrid may activate their contingency plan. Grimaldo, who brings experience, attacking thrust, and a proven record under Alonso, could be a swift solution.
As with past sagas, from Kylian Mbappe to Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid are not strangers to waiting or walking away. Their valuation-first approach has become a hallmark of their modern transfer dealings. Carreras may be their first choice, but if Benfica doesn’t negotiate, Los Blancos won’t hesitate to move on, especially with the Club World Cup drawing near.
