Manchester United make huge transfer decision as medical booked for star

According to recent reports, former United defender Alvaro Carreras is on the cusp of joining Real Madrid. United had a buy-back clause that will expire in 2026, following the Spanish full-back's initial transfer to Benfica after a successful loan period with the Portuguese giants.

As per Fabrizio Romano, Benfica has confirmed that it won't activate the clause included in Carreras' transfer deal to Portugal's southwest. Sources claim that United's decision has hastened Carreras' return to the Spanish capital, where he will undergo a medical assessment at Madrid.

It is stated that Real Madrid will pay €50million in instalments to secure Carreras' services. Furthermore, according to the Manchester Evening News, United retained a considerable sell-on clause following his departure 12 months ago.

In a tweet, Fabrizio Romano revealed: "Álvaro Carreras can be considered new Real Madrid player as he will travel to Madrid today!".

"Medical booked, player now authorized to travel," reports the Manchester Evening News. "Man Utd confirm they won't activate buy back option so deal now sealed. €50m in installments. Here we go, confirmed."

Manchester United originally signed Carreras, then 17-years-old, to a four-year deal after the Spaniard left Real Madrid for free.

Some United fans called for the club to trigger Carreras' buy-back option in January amid defensive issues, with Benfica exhausting its options in the full-back position.

Despite the growing clamour for United to snap up Carreras, the club decided against bringing back the defender who didn't manage to impress Erik ten Hag.

Discussing his future in January, Carreras stated: "In truth, we never know, but I have a long-term contract here at Benfica, I'm happy. They gave me the opportunity to grow and I owe them everything."