Real Madrid encounter unexpected issue in plans to sign more players | OneFootball

Real Madrid are close to finalising the signing of 22-year-old left-back Alvaro Carreras from Benfica. The deal is almost done, and Carreras is expected to be officially unveiled by Los Blancos in the coming days.

Initially, Real Madrid did not plan to make more additions this summer. However, after the team’s 0-4 loss to PSG in the Club World Cup, the club has shifted its strategy.

Now, Madrid are actively looking to bring in a new centre-back and possibly a midfielder as well.

So far this summer, Real Madrid have already signed Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Franco Mastantuono. Carreras is set to join that list shortly.

On top of that, youth players Raul Asencio and Gonzalo Garcia have reportedly earned first-team promotions, which has created a new challenge for the club.

Madrid reach squad limit, departures expected

With the current signings, including Carrera, and the promotions of Asencio and Gonzalo, Real Madrid now have 25 first-team players.

Real Madrid have reached the squad limit. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

This is the maximum number allowed by La Liga regulations. To continue strengthening the squad, Los Blancos will need to sell or loan out players to make room for new arrivals.

There are already a few names on the table for potential departures. Rodrygo, Ferland Mendy, Dani Ceballos, and Endrick are all being discussed. Gonzalo could also still leave if the coaching staff decides it’s best for his development.

Everything will depend on the decisions made in the upcoming meeting between the club’s management and head coach Xabi Alonso.

That meeting will determine Real Madrid’s next steps in the transfer market, as they prepare for a season where they aim to compete for every major trophy.

Madrid’s transfer window is far from over, but balancing the squad will be key to maintaining success without breaking squad limits. This means of they can sanction some exits, they can rope in new signings.