Real Madrid looking at Alonso’s trusted star as ‘Plan B’ after price tag halts priority deal | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s pursuit of a new left-back has taken a twist, with SPORT revealing that the club may be forced to turn to Plan B, who is Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo.

Madrid’s primary objective this summer has been to reinforce the left flank of their defence, with Alvaro Carreras identified as the top target.

However, talks with Benfica have proven difficult, with the Portuguese side unwilling to compromise on the player’s €50 million release clause.

Benfica’s intent to retain Carreras for the upcoming Club World Cup has added further resistance, and Real Madrid are reportedly hesitant to meet the full asking price.

A lot is said about Carreras

While multiple reports have suggested that the Carreras deal is already wrapped up pending a medical, the reality appears far more complicated.

Unlike the swift announcements for Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Madrid have remained silent on Carreras, largely due to the unresolved fee issue.

As a result, Los Blancos are now reconsidering alternatives, and Grimaldo is the standout candidate.

Real Madrid are yet to close Alvaro Carreras’ transfer. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

It is to be noted that the Spaniard has impressed with his performances under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, playing a remarkable 48 matches this season.

Grimaldo, a La Masia product, has revitalised his career in the Bundesliga and remains one of Europe’s most consistent full-backs.

An interesting option to have

What makes Grimaldo particularly attractive to Real Madrid is his price tag. With two years left on his current deal, he could be available for around €30 million, which is €20 million less than Carrera’s.

This figure falls well within Madrid’s budget and would allow the club to meet Alonso’s tactical needs without entering a drawn-out bidding war.

Grimaldo’s experience, attacking threat, and positional discipline make him an ideal candidate to compete with or even displace Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia, neither of whom have fully convinced the coaching staff.

Moreover, his potential availability for the Club World Cup makes the timing even more crucial.

For now, the Carreras deal remains Madrid’s priority, but with Benfica standing firm and Madrid unwilling to overpay, Grimaldo is moving rapidly up the shortlist.