Xabi Alonso pushes Chelsea to Sign Real Madrid defender Álvaro Carreras

Chelsea are continuing their pursuit of Real Madrid left-back Álvaro Carreras, with reports in Spain suggesting Xabi Alonso is actively encouraging the Premier League club to complete a deal before the summer transfer window closes.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Carreras remains a genuine target for Chelsea despite Real Madrid rejecting an earlier offer believed to be worth around €25 million. The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as all parties assess whether a transfer can be reached.

Chelsea's search for a new left-back intensified following Marc Cucurella's departure earlier this summer, leaving a significant vacancy in the squad. Carreras has emerged as one of the club's preferred solutions, having enjoyed an impressive first season after joining Real Madrid from Benfica.

The 23-year-old featured in 40 matches during his debut campaign at the Santiago Bernabéu, with 25 of those appearances coming under former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso before his departure in January. Alonso's familiarity with the defender is understood to be a major factor behind Chelsea's continued interest.

Spanish reports claim Alonso has repeatedly requested information about Carreras and believes the full-back would fit well into his tactical plans at Stamford Bridge.

Although Carreras only arrived at Real Madrid last summer, his long-term prospects have become less certain following changes within the squad. The defender is reportedly expected to face increased competition for minutes, raising the possibility of a move despite being contracted until 2030.

Chelsea can offer a more prominent role, particularly after losing Cucurella, something that may appeal to the former Manchester United academy player if regular first-team football becomes difficult to secure in Madrid.

For Real Madrid, a sale would also allow the club to recover a significant portion of the investment made to sign the Spanish international just a year ago, making the deal financially attractive if the right offer arrives.

While Chelsea remain interested, the transfer is far from agreed. Mundo Deportivo reports that the next few weeks will determine whether negotiations progress into a formal agreement.

There is currently no indication that Carreras has decided he wants to leave Real Madrid. Much could depend on how he is viewed within José Mourinho's plans for the upcoming season and whether he believes consistent playing time will be available.

Chelsea, meanwhile, appear prepared to wait as they continue exploring solutions for the left side of defence before the transfer window closes.

Carreras represents a profile Chelsea value: young, technically strong and already experienced at the highest level. His familiarity with Alonso's methods could ease his adaptation if a move materialises. However, Real Madrid still hold a strong negotiating position thanks to the defender's long-term contract, meaning Chelsea may need to improve on their previous bid before any breakthrough is reached.

Key points

Chelsea are expected to decide whether to return with an improved offer as negotiations continue. Real Madrid's stance may also become clearer once Mourinho finalises his plans for the left-back position ahead of the new campaign. Until then, Carreras' future remains open, although interest from Stamford Bridge appears to be genuine.