Chelsea join race for Real Madrid left-back Álvaro Carreras

Chelsea have entered a transfer race for Real Madrid left-back Álvaro Carreras, with Arsenal and Manchester United also monitoring the 23‑year‑old defender as Real Madrid look to recover the €50 million they paid for him in July 2025 in the upcoming summer window.

Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid altered the defensive hierarchy, prompting the Spanish club to plan the Spanish international as the undisputed first choice. “According to information obtained from sources close to SportsBoom, the Real Madrid management plans to position Cucurella as the undisputed first choice.”

Real Madrid have set a €50 million asking price for Carreras, a figure that reflects the amount they paid in July 2025. “Los Blancos want to regain the €50 million they paid for Carreras in July 2025.”

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso knows Carreras from their time together at Real Madrid, where Alonso oversaw the defender’s development. “Alonso, who became the new manager of Chelsea, knows Carreras closely because he developed the young player himself at Real Madrid.”

Carreras spent four years in the Manchester United academy and completed a loan spell at Preston North End, giving him familiarity with English football. His background makes him a technically polished option for a Premier League side.

Chelsea’s recruitment model favours young, technically adept players who already understand the English game, and Carreras fits that profile. The club sees him as more than squad depth, potentially offering a clear role in the first team.

Jose Mourinho expressed support for Carreras leaving after a meeting with former teammate Alvaro Arbeloa. With Arsenal and Manchester United also watching, Chelsea may need to move early to secure the left‑back.