Latest on ex-Man Utd fullback's move to Real Madrid and how the Reds can benefit

Benfica president Rui Costa has made his stance clear regarding Real Madrid’s interest in ex-Manchester United player Alvaro Carreras.

Speaking after Benfica’s impressive 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich, which secured their place in the Club World Cup round of 16, Rui Costa addressed the mounting speculation about Carreras potentially moving to the Bernabéu.

If Carreras completes a move from Benfica to Real Madrid, Manchester United stand to benefit financially thanks to the terms of his previous transfer. When United sold Carreras to Benfica last summer for €6 million, they reportedly included a buy-back clause set at €18 million.

This clause gives United the option to re-sign Carreras for €18 million, even if another club, such as Real Madrid, wants to purchase him.

Costa was unequivocal on a move to Madrid: “Let them make us an offer. We haven’t received anything yet. If they do, we’ll see what happens,” he stated, referencing the growing rumours of Real Madrid’s pursuit of the former United talent.

However, he was adamant that any negotiations would be postponed until Benfica’s Club World Cup campaign concludes. “Now is not the time, and nothing will happen until the tournament and our participation are over. Until then, there’s nothing to discuss. Carreras is here with us,” Costa insisted.

The Benfica president’s comments come at a time when Carreras, who left Manchester United to seek more first-team opportunities, has become a key figure for the Portuguese giants.

His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid reportedly monitoring his progress closely. However, Costa’s message was firm: the focus remains on Benfica’s historic run in the Club World Cup, rather than transfer speculation.

Rui Costa also took the opportunity to praise his squad’s achievement in defeating Bayern Munich, highlighting the significance of the result for the club.

“We had to qualify, and we did it, and on top of that, by beating a team like Bayern. That’s a very difficult thing to do, and all the credit goes to the players. For us, it was very important to reach the round of 16, and now we must keep looking at our next opponents and see how far we can go,” he said.

For now, any move for Carreras—who continues to build his reputation after leaving Old Trafford—will have to wait until Benfica’s Club World Cup journey is complete.