Manchester United’s summer overhaul is already making headlines, but one former Red has grabbed attention in Spain with a blockbuster transfer of his own.
While the focus at Carrington remains on pre-season preparations under Ruben Amorim, transfer activity around Europe is heating up.
United’s former talents are increasingly featuring in major moves, highlighting both the strength of the academy and the financial implications of smart sell-on clauses.
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Reds boss Amorim continues to assess his defensive depth, with left-back options particularly under review.
Luke Shaw’s injury record and Tyrell Malacia’s long recovery have left United evaluating their options in that position.
Meanwhile, in Madrid, Los Blancos have been busy strengthening their squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
After landing high-profile names like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid have now added a fourth summer signing—and it’s one Manchester United fans will remember.
Alvaro Carreras is officially a Real Madrid player, as announced on Los Blancos official club website.
The club’s statement read: “Real Madrid C.F. and Sport Lisboa e Benfica have reached an agreement for the transfer of Álvaro Carreras, who will be under contract with our club for the next six seasons, until 30 June 2031.
The club also announced when the left-back’s unveiling will be, announcing: “The presentation of Álvaro Carreras will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, at 1 pm, at Real Madrid City.”
“Previously, Real Madrid’s club president, Florentino Pérez, will welcome Carreras for the ceremony of the contract signing that will link the new player to the club for the next six seasons.
“After the presentation, Carreras will speak to the media in the press room at Real Madrid City.”
The 22-year-old left-back, formerly of Manchester United, has signed from SL Benfica in a deal worth £43 million.
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Personal terms were never a stumbling block, with the Spaniard keen on returning to Real Madrid—five years after leaving their academy for Old Trafford.
United had the chance to re-sign Carreras, thanks to a £15 million buy-back clause negotiated into his initial transfer to Benfica.
However, club sources confirmed they opted against triggering the clause, allowing Madrid to proceed uncontested.
There is still financial gain for United.
A 20% sell-on clause was also included in the Benfica deal, entitling United to a percentage of any fee above £5 million—meaning they’ll pocket several million from the Madrid transfer.
Real Madrid had initially tried to wrap up the deal before the Club World Cup but faced resistance from Benfica.
Negotiations sped up after Madrid sanctioned the sale of Rafel Obrador to Benfica last week.
Alvaro Carreras, who impressed during his time with United’s youth and senior squads, now returns to Spain at the peak of his value, with fans across Europe eager to see how he develops at the Santiago Bernabeu.
