Real Madrid ready to give up on Alvaro Carreras over Benfica's €50m demands as Xabi Alonso eyes reunion with Bayer Leverkusen star as alternative

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid's pursuit of Carreras has hit a significant obstacle, with negotiations between Los Blancos and Benfica stalling over the defender's release clause, according to Marca (h/t Mundo Deportivo). While the Spanish giants have already reached a five-year agreement with the 22-year-old Galician full-back, the transfer remains on hold due to Benfica's firm stance.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The Portuguese club is demanding the full €50 million buyout clause, while Madrid are attempting to negotiate a reduced fee in the region of €35–40 million. Talks have dragged on for several weeks without progress, prompting the club's technical staff to begin exploring alternative options, reports The Athletic. Carreras is seen as a priority target for both Xabi Alonso and Madrid's recruitment team, who view him as the ideal solution at left-back. He is expected to be the third defensive reinforcement of the summer, following the signings of Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

DID YOU KNOW?

Madrid have until June 10 to finalise the deal before the Club World Cup roster deadline — a tournament in which Benfica will also participate. If an agreement cannot be reached in the coming days, Madrid may shift their focus to Grimaldo. The 29-year-old Spanish international has long expressed interest in joining a top-tier club, and if Carreras' move falls through, a high-profile switch to the Bernabeu could soon be within reach for the former Benfica full-back.