Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has identified Real Madrid left-back Alvaro Carreras as a key summer target, according to a report from CaughtOffside. The 23-year-old Spaniard, who only rejoined Madrid from Benfica last summer in a €50 million deal, is said to be attracting interest from several top European clubs, with Arsenal's pursuit described as 'particularly strong'. The report claims Arteta is personally leading the effort to convince Carreras to move to the Emirates Stadium.
Carreras has established himself as Madrid's first-choice left-back this season, contributing two goals and two assists in 38 appearances across all competitions. His career path includes a previous stint in England, having moved from Real Madrid's academy to Manchester United in 2020, though he never made a senior appearance for the Old Trafford club before loan spells at Preston North End and Granada led to a permanent move to Benfica. His performances in Portugal prompted Madrid to bring him back to the Bernabeu.
The report suggests Arteta has made the capture of a new left-back a 'priority' for the upcoming window and has offered Carreras a 'meaningful role' in the starting lineup. It is claimed the player is now open to the move, finding the project 'increasingly attractive' after discussions where Arteta reportedly sold him on a 'long-term project' with regular Premier League minutes. Arsenal are also said to be willing to offer a 'strong financial package' to facilitate the deal.
However, significant obstacles remain. Real Madrid are under no immediate pressure to sell a key starter, and the report notes that midfielders Eduardo Camavinga or Aurelien Tchouameni are considered more likely departures from the Spanish capital this summer. Furthermore, Arsenal's left-back situation is complex, with current starter Piero Hincapie set to join the club permanently this summer after his loan spell. The club has also been linked with other left-back options, including Sporting CP's Maxi Araujo.
Should Madrid entertain offers for Carreras, Arsenal would face competition. The report mentions Manchester United, Juventus, and Napoli as potential rival suitors. A return to Manchester United would represent another reunion with a former club for the defender. For Arsenal, securing a player of Carreras's profile would represent a significant statement of intent and provide depth and competition in a key area, but the likelihood of the transfer remains uncertain given the player's importance to his current club and the competitive market for his signature.
