Atletico Madrid targets defender Alvaro Carreras this summer

Atletico Madrid is planning to sign new defenders this summer. The team is likely to lose several players, including Axel Witsel and Cesar Azpilicueta, who will be out of contract in June. Reinildo Mandava is also expected to leave, as he has lost his starting position. With these departures, Atletico will need to find replacements, especially for the left-back position. Javi Galan is currently the only natural left-back in the squad. Atletico is interested in Alvaro Carreras, a 22-year-old defender from Benfica. Carreras has also attracted attention from Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. Carreras has been impressive in the 2024-25 season and has a €42 million release clause in his contract. He joined Benfica permanently last summer after leaving Manchester United, which retained a buy-back option. Atletico sees Carreras as a key target for their defense. However, meeting Benfica's asking price might be challenging for Atletico. The club also needs to strengthen in other areas, which could limit their ability to make this move.