Real Madrid Secure Alvaro Carreras Deal as Man Utd Cash In: A Win-Win Transfer Across Europe

Alvaro Carreras joins Real Madrid from Benfica, with Manchester United set for a share of the profit

Real Madrid’s ongoing rebuild under Xabi Alonso has taken another promising turn, with the club securing the services of Spanish full-back Alvaro Carreras from Benfica. While the fee raised some eyebrows, it also sparked celebrations further north — particularly in Manchester, where Carreras’ former club United are set to receive a substantial windfall thanks to a clever sell-on clause.

With Benfica officially disclosing the financial details of the transfer, all eyes are now on how this move could shape Madrid’s defensive future — and how United’s long-term thinking has turned into a tidy payday.

Real Madrid agree full fee with Benfica for Alvaro Carreras

Carreras

The move, which was in the works for several weeks, has now been confirmed and fully accounted for by Benfica, who informed the Portuguese Securities Market Commission of the exact terms. Madrid, in their meticulous fashion, opted to retain the 5% solidarity contribution — standard in transfers involving players who have been developed across multiple clubs.

But the real story, especially from an English perspective, is that Manchester United are entitled to 20% of the capital gain. This figure comes after deducting both the acquisition costs and the solidarity fee, but still amounts to a significant return for a player who never quite broke into United’s senior side.

Carreras, 21, joined Benfica initially on loan from Manchester United and impressed enough to earn a permanent deal for a modest fee. Just a year later, his value has soared, and Real Madrid have swooped in with a much larger offer — believed to be in the region of €15 million. That translates into a notable profit for Benfica and a shrewd bit of business for United.

Alvaro Carreras: Madrid’s bet on versatility

Alvaro Carreras

For Real Madrid, this transfer isn’t just about numbers — it’s about future-proofing. Carreras is seen as a versatile asset who can provide cover and competition on both flanks, though his natural role is as a left-back. With Ferland Mendy’s future still under review and Fran Garcia struggling to nail down the spot, Carreras offers a fresh option and a new dynamic.

Manager Xabi Alonso, who is looking to blend Madrid’s world-class talent with a new generation of energetic, modern footballers, is said to be personally excited by the Carreras signing. Sources close to Valdebebas suggest that the Spanish coach sees him as a long-term project — not just a squad filler.

Carreras brings more than just energy. He’s tactically flexible, technically gifted, and has proven himself in both Portugal’s Primeira Liga and on the European stage. His ability to read the game and support the attack with intelligent overlapping runs fits nicely with Madrid’s full-back expectations.

Manchester United reap the rewards of smart planning

While Carreras’ chapter at Old Trafford was brief — mostly spent with the U23s and on loan — United’s decision to include a significant sell-on clause is paying dividends. These kinds of clauses have become increasingly common in modern football, especially for clubs with elite academies looking to protect their long-term investment.

It’s another example of Manchester United benefiting from a youth structure that continues to produce talent, even if not all of it ends up in the first team. In this case, the player’s growth elsewhere has indirectly strengthened the club’s transfer budget.

With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS team now overseeing football operations at United, every pound counts. The Carreras fee — potentially close to €3 million depending on add-ons and final terms — could help fund ongoing recruitment efforts or support contract extensions for current academy stars.

A smart flip for Benfica

Let’s not overlook Benfica’s role in this transfer masterstroke. The Lisbon club have become specialists in acquiring young talent, developing them quickly, and selling at a premium. From Darwin Nunez to Enzo Fernandez, their model is well-known — and Carreras now joins the list of profitable flips.

They took a calculated risk by taking Carreras on loan and then triggering a buy option before his stock had truly risen. That risk has now paid off handsomely. And with Madrid paying a fee above what most expected, Benfica walk away not just with a solid financial return but also with the reputation of being an elite development pathway for Europe’s top clubs.

What’s next for Alvaro Carreras?

Carreras is expected to be presented at Real Madrid City on Tuesday, where president Florentino Perez will unveil the young Spaniard in front of the press. His official signing comes ahead of Madrid’s pre-season preparations under Alonso, with friendlies and a training camp on the agenda.

The player himself is said to be “thrilled” about the opportunity to return to Spain and represent one of the biggest clubs in the world. Carreras has always been highly rated by Spanish youth scouts and now has the chance to prove himself at the highest level — not just in La Liga, but on the Champions League stage too.

Madrid’s left-back shuffle continues

With Marcelo long gone and Mendy inconsistent due to injuries, Madrid have struggled to find a stable presence on the left flank in recent seasons. Fran Garcia returned last year but hasn’t fully convinced. That has left Alonso seeking alternative options — and Carreras, with his energy and ability to grow, could be the answer.

It’s unlikely that he’ll walk straight into the starting XI, but the door is open. If he impresses during pre-season, he could begin to edge his way into Alonso’s plans. In a season where Madrid will once again be juggling domestic and European duties, depth will be key.

Final thoughts: A move with benefits for all

In a transfer market full of big-money deals and complicated clauses, the Alvaro Carreras move stands out as an example of well-executed strategy across all levels. Real Madrid get a rising star, Benfica secure a healthy profit, and Manchester United walk away with unexpected earnings.

Carreras may not yet be a household name, but if things go to plan, Madrid fans could be seeing a lot more of him in the coming years — and United fans will continue to keep one eye on his progress, knowing every goal, assist or clean sheet could boost the value of their sell-on clause.

Not every transfer is win-win. This one just might be.