Real Madrid has re-signed left-back Álvaro Carreras from Benfica for about €50 million, bringing the 22-year-old Spaniard back to the club’s first team on a six-season contract that runs through June 2031. The fee makes Carreras the most expensive left-back ever acquired by a La Liga side, edging the €48 million paid for Ferland Mendy in 2019. Carreras completed his medical on Tuesday and was presented at the club’s Valdebebas training complex alongside president Florentino Pérez, who hailed the former academy player as “one of the best young defenders in Europe.” The Galicia-born defender will wear the No. 18 shirt and said, “I came here a boy and come back a man. I promise to fight every minute for this badge.” He also expressed gratitude to Benfica and to his family for their support. The move gives new head coach Xabi Alonso three recognised options at left-back—Carreras, Fran García and Mendy—as Madrid refreshes its squad after this year’s Club World Cup. Carreras, who cited Roberto Carlos and Marcelo as role models, returns to the Bernabéu after stints at Manchester United, Preston North End, Granada and Benfica, where he earned a place in Portugal’s league Team of the Season.