‘Make us an offer!’ – Real Madrid Told to Pay Up for Alvaro Carreras as Benfica President Denies Bid Despite Left-Back’s Agreement with La Liga Giants

Real Madrid’s Alvaro Carreras Interest Sparks Transfer Tensions

As the summer transfer window heats up, Real Madrid find themselves once again at the center of a transfer saga, this time involving a familiar name: Alvaro Carreras. The young left-back, currently with Benfica, is reportedly on the radar of the La Liga giants. However, despite rumors swirling from Spanish media suggesting a deal is imminent, Benfica president Rui Costa has poured cold water over such claims.

In a firm but measured statement, Costa said there has been no formal bid from the Spanish powerhouse. “They should make us an offer. None have come so far,” he told Marca, leaving no doubt that, despite Alvaro Carreras’ reported personal terms agreement with Madrid, the two clubs remain far apart in their negotiations.

A Complicated Pursuit: Real Madrid vs. Benfica Over Alvaro Carreras

Carreras, a product of Real Madrid’s own academy system, has developed into a standout performer in Portugal. His rapid rise through the ranks at Benfica has caught the attention of several European heavyweights, but it is Los Blancos who seem most keen on bringing him back to the Spanish capital.

The left-back has a release clause of €50 million in his contract, and Benfica appear determined to hold close to that valuation. They’ve shown a small willingness to negotiate, indicating that a fee around €48 million could be acceptable. However, Madrid’s stance seems more conservative—they’re reportedly only willing to pay around €40 million. That €8 million gap could prove significant unless one party budges.

Rui Costa: No Room for Distraction During the Club World Cup

In an unusually candid tone, Rui Costa also made it clear that now is not the right time to discuss transfers. “Now is not the time, and it won’t be until the tournament and our participation are over. Until then, there’s no need to talk about anything. Alvaro Carreras is here with us,” he said.

The former midfield maestro’s stance is understandable. Benfica are still deeply involved in the Club World Cup, where they’ve already secured a place in the round of 16. The Eagles are set to face Premier League side Chelsea, and distractions off the pitch are the last thing Costa or head coach Roger Schmidt want during such a critical juncture.

The Bigger Picture: Alvaro Carreras’ Rise and Real Madrid’s Dilemma

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Carreras’ situation is a classic example of how success at a club like Benfica can catapult a player’s valuation. The Spanish full-back has been instrumental in Benfica’s domestic and continental campaigns. His performances haven’t just impressed scouts—they’ve put him in direct comparison with some of Europe’s elite in his position.

For Madrid, the situation is more nuanced. Their current left-back options include Ferland Mendy and Fran García, but neither has solidified the spot as an undisputed starter. With Xabi Alonso, now managing Bayer Leverkusen, enjoying success with former Madrid prospect Alex Grimaldo, the alternative option for Real could be Grimaldo himself—potentially at a cheaper price.

Real Madrid’s Budget Calculations: Value vs. Loyalty

There’s also the emotional layer to this story. Alvaro Carreras was part of Madrid’s academy, and a potential return would fit the club’s strategy of bringing back homegrown talent. But emotion only carries so much weight when €50 million is on the line.

Madrid president Florentino Pérez is renowned for being a calculated negotiator. With a hefty release clause and Benfica’s strong stance, the club may feel that Alvaro Carreras’ price tag is inflated—especially when options like Grimaldo could be secured for a more palatable fee.

What Happens Next?

Real Madrid CF v CF Pachuca: Group H – FIFA Club World Cup 2025

According to all reports, any significant developments regarding Alvaro Carreras are unlikely to materialize until after the Club World Cup concludes. Madrid are set to face RB Salzburg in a must-win encounter, while Benfica are already through to the next round.

What makes this transfer saga especially intriguing is that both clubs are balancing high-stakes football with tense boardroom negotiations. Madrid’s pursuit of Alvaro Carreras may yet evolve into a game of brinkmanship, where timing and patience prove as important as financial firepower.

Final Thoughts: Will Real Madrid Make Their Move?

For now, the ball is in Real Madrid’s court. Benfica have made their position clear: show us the money, or don’t bother. Rui Costa’s comments were not just a denial of an offer—they were a challenge.

Madrid must decide whether Alvaro Carreras is worth breaking their valuation threshold, or if they’ll look elsewhere in their eternal quest to remain kings of Europe. As with many summer transfer sagas, expect drama, debate, and more twists before a final decision is made.

Until then, Alvaro Carreras remains a Benfica player—focused, committed, and with his fate dangling in the balance of two of Europe’s most storied clubs.