Joan Martinez: Man United looking to snap up Real Madrid’s defensive gem | OneFootball

Former Manchester United youngster Álvaro Carreras has established himself as key part of Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid squad.

Carreras joined Los Blancos from Benfica last summer, around 18 months after moving to Portugal from United in a loan deal with a €6m option to buy.

Interestingly, Real’s €50m signing was part of their youth setup before United convinced him to move to Old Trafford, offering him a more clear pathway between academy and first team. Now, the Red Devils are hoping to lure another highly-rated Real defender.

Manchester United interested in Martinez

According to Defensa Central, United and Chelsea are “very closely” monitoring Joan Martinez. 

The 18-year-old central defender, who currently plays for Real Madrid Castilla in the Spanish third tier, is regarded as one of the best prospects in Madrid. 

The versatile defender has earned plaudits for his versatility, reading of the game and technical ability with the ball at his feet.

Early this year, the Spanish giants extended his contract until 2029 and raised his release clause to €150m. However, Real might struggle to keep hold of Martinez for long, as he has outgrown the third division. 

Martinez wants to play under Alonso

The Spanish outlet suggest Martinez’s future depends on Alonso’s faith in his potential.

The Premier League could very well be his next destination if Alonso fails to promote the youngster to the senior side.

Real rarely let jewels like Martinez slip out of their grasp. As such, the likelihood of him joining United appears to be slim. 

The La Liga leaders did lose Carreras to United in 2020, but they made amends by bringing him back to Santiago Bernabeu.

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Carreras’ form under Alonso has “generated great anger” at United, who “can’t believe” how good he has performed in La Liga so far.

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social