Xabi Alonso Targets Álvaro Carreras Reunion at Chelsea as Real Madrid Seek Squad Space

Real Madrid’s summer transfer business has taken a new turn with reports that Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is pushing to sign left-back Álvaro Carreras. According to Mundo Deportivo, the 23-year-old could be on his way to Stamford Bridge, a move that would solve several problems for both clubs.

The report, published on 26 July 2026, says Alonso has been actively asking about Carreras, whom he coached during his own spell as Real Madrid head coach. The player has seen his playing time shrink after the arrival of Marc Cucurella and a change of manager at the Bernabéu.

Carreras’s Fall From Regular Starter

Carreras joined Real Madrid from Benfica in July 2025 for a reported €50 million, signing a contract until June 2031. Under Xabi Alonso, who was Madrid’s head coach until early January 2026, the left-back started regularly and performed well. However, after Álvaro Arbeloa took over, Carreras gradually lost his place, finishing the season as second choice behind Fran García.

The situation worsened this summer when Real Madrid signed World Cup winner Marc Cucurella from Chelsea for €55 million plus up to €5 million in variables. With Cucurella expected to be the first-choice left-back, Carreras now faces a season with limited minutes.

Xabi Alonso’s Interest at Chelsea

Xabi Alonso, now managing Chelsea after leaving Real Madrid in January, is reportedly monitoring Carreras’s situation closely. The Spanish coach knows the player’s strengths from their time together and is looking for a left-back to fill the gap left by Cucurella’s departure. According to the report, Alonso has been asking about the possibility of signing Carreras.

For Chelsea, Carreras would provide competition and depth at left-back while being familiar with Alonso’s tactics. For Carreras, a move would mean a return to regular football in a league where he has already shown he can adapt.

How the Deal Could Benefit Real Madrid

Beyond finding a solution for Carreras, the transfer could have financial implications for Real Madrid. The report suggests that Chelsea’s acquisition of Carreras might lower the total fee Madrid paid for Cucurella. The original deal involved €55 million guaranteed plus €5 million in performance-related add-ons. If Carreras moves to Stamford Bridge, part of those variables could be reduced or restructured, effectively lowering the net cost of the Cucurella deal.

Additionally, Madrid currently have all 25 first-team squad places filled. With new arrivals such as Yan Diamandé from RB Leipzig still being discussed, and the club not ruling out a move for Rodrigo Hernández, creating space is essential. Carreras is one of the few players whose departure would not weaken the starting eleven but would free up a valuable roster spot.

Key Facts

What Remains Unclear

No official offer has been made by Chelsea, and the deal remains speculative. The exact financial structure of any potential variable reduction tied to Cucurella’s transfer has not been disclosed. It is also unclear whether Carreras himself has requested a move or whether Real Madrid would be willing to sell a player with a contract until 2031.

What Comes Next

The next few weeks are expected to be decisive. With the summer transfer window still open, Chelsea and Real Madrid are likely to hold talks. Carreras’s desire for regular football could accelerate the process, and Xabi Alonso’s personal interest adds weight to the rumour. Fans should monitor official club statements rather than rely solely on media reports.

Source: Mundo Deportivo – https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/real-madrid/20260726/1004210273/xabi-alonso-hacerle-favor-mourinho.html