Mansion Sports - Real Madrid is reportedly close to securing their fourth signing in the current summer transfer window. Promising Spanish defender Álvaro Carreras is said to be just one step away from officially joining Los Blancos, reinforcing the defensive line under the direction of Xabi Alonso.

Following the successful acquisitions of Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold in early June—both of whom featured in the Club World Cup—alongside the finalized deal for Franco Mastantuono (who will only join after turning 18 in August), the club is now set to bring in Carreras as their next major addition to the squad.

Agreement Reached with Benfica

Real Madrid had initially aimed to secure Carreras’ signature earlier this summer to include him in the squad for the Club World Cup. 

However, at the time, negotiations with Benfica had stalled without a formal agreement. Talks between the two clubs resumed earlier this week, and according to The Athletic, a deal has now been officially reached.

Carreras’ contract with Benfica included a €50 million release clause. Rather than activating this clause outright, Real Madrid opted for a structured payment approach, spread across three installments—similar to the financial arrangement used when acquiring Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth.

With all major terms now settled, the transfer process has entered its final phase. Carreras is expected to fly to Madrid shortly, where he will undergo a medical examination, finalize personal terms, and sign his new contract. If all proceeds without complications, the club is expected to formally announce the transfer by the end of the week.

A Long-Term Solution for the Left-Back Position

The signing of Álvaro Carreras is widely seen as a strategic move to address one of Real Madrid’s persistent vulnerabilities—the left-back position. 

In recent seasons, neither Ferland Mendy nor Fran García has consistently delivered performances at the highest level, prompting the club to seek a more reliable and competitive alternative.

Carreras is anticipated to step into the starting role as left-back immediately and continue in that position for the foreseeable future. 

Known for his disciplined defending and his ability to contribute to attacking plays down the flank, the young Spaniard is viewed as a strong fit for the tactical philosophy that Xabi Alonso is implementing at Real Madrid.

This move is also part of the club’s broader effort to rejuvenate the squad with younger, high-potential talent. 

With reinforcements already secured in midfield and on the right side of defense, the addition of Carreras marks the completion of Madrid’s plan to strengthen the left side as well.

Should his transfer be officially confirmed in the coming days, Carreras will join a new generation of promising signings who are being groomed to form the future core of Real Madrid.