Rui Costa Thwarts Real Madrid’s Bid for Benfica Star

Real Madrid’s Pursuit of Defensive Target Could Face Hurdles

Real Madrid may encounter obstacles in their quest to sign a key summer transfer target upon their return from the FIFA Club World Cup. Xabi Alonso has already finalized his squad for the upcoming tournament in the USA, and the international transfer window will reopen on June 16.

Alonso has successfully secured deals for defensive players Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold, with a combined transfer fee of approximately £60m. These players are set to join the team in Miami. However, Alonso is now focused on landing a third defensive target after the Club World Cup, despite Benfica including Alvaro Carreras in their squad.

Real Madrid Optimistic About Securing Carreras Deal

Real Madrid had initially aimed to complete a transfer for Carreras at around €40m. However, recent reports from Marca indicate that the Spanish club may need to meet his full €50m release clause set by Benfica in Lisbon.

Although Benfica’s decision to include Carreras in their squad for the competition may seem like a strategic move, Real Madrid remains undeterred in their pursuit of the player and is gearing up for a renewed effort in July.

Benfica Stands Firm Against Real Madrid’s Alleged Swoop for Carreras

The tension between Real Madrid and Benfica has escalated due to the Carreras transfer saga. Benfica’s president, Rui Costa, a former star player, has refuted claims of a completed deal with Real Madrid.

Costa stated, “Carreras is going to play the Club World Cup with us and he is a Benfica player. We haven’t reached any agreement with Real Madrid for him. There were proposals that weren’t to our liking, in Alvaro’s case, and for other players.”

Benfica remains steadfast in their stance on Carreras’ future, insisting on receiving the full amount of his release clause before considering his departure from Estadio da Luz.