Real Madrid’s preparations for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States have encountered a setback due to squad registration deadlines and complications in the transfer market. With the tournament’s squad submission deadline set for June 10 and the international transfer window temporarily closing the same day, clubs must finalize any new additions before then. Once the competition begins, further signings will be off-limits until the window reopens on June 16.
Head coach Xabi Alonso has already secured two new additions to his defense, signing Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold for a combined fee of roughly £60 million. However, his pursuit of a third target has stalled due to unresolved negotiations and a firm stance from the selling club.
Benfica hold firm on carreras transfer
Alvaro Carreras, currently with Benfica, was being pursued by Real Madrid for an expected fee close to €40 million. However, according to Marca, Benfica insisted the Spanish club pay the full €50 million release clause in order to finalize the deal. While talks between the two clubs are still ongoing in Madrid, Benfica’s position appears to have solidified, particularly after including Carreras in their travel squad for the tournament.
This decision effectively rules out Carreras’ availability for Real Madrid until July, with the Portuguese side preparing to submit their final list to FIFA in the next 48 hours. Benfica’s move to involve the player in the competition signals their intent to keep him until after the tournament concludes.
Club World Cup group draw sets Benfica’s path
Benfica is set to make their debut in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup format, placed in Group C. Their campaign begins with a fixture against Boca Juniors on June 16, followed by matches against Auckland City on June 20 and Bayern Munich on June 24. Rui Costa’s squad, now including Carreras, will fly to the USA today as part of their tournament preparations.
