If one thing has been evident this season it is that Real Madrid's defense is in dire need of reinforcements. Taking into account the sheer number of injuries in the backline, as well as overall drops in form by almost all defenders Real Madrid have a project on their hands heading into the upcoming summer transfer window.
Along with incoming players, a number of others are expected to be told they are not a part of Xabi Alonso's project and will be put up for sale. This is especially true when it comes to the left-back position.
Real Madrid have a number of options on their list to reinforce the left side of their defense, each with their own upsides. However, there is one player in particular on their list that would be the best long term option for the club going forward.
Signing Alvaro Carreras from Benfica could transform Real Madrid's defense
As being reported by MARCA, Real Madrid have made re-signing former academy player Alvaro Carreras from Benfica their top priority to reinforce their left flank, currently occupied by Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia.
Carreras is a much different profile compared to the current options at the club and his return to the club could transform Real's disastrous defense.
As mentioned earlier the 22-year-old is a much different profile compared to Mendy and Fran Garcia and would be a great fit for Xabi Alonso's system.
Carreras has a well rounded game going both ways, capable of adding to the attack when needed. He has a strong left foot and has seen his defensive side of the game take a massive jump forward in his time at Benfica.
His defensive game is much stronger then what either left-back option currently offers the squad.
It is widely expected that both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen will be arriving at Real Madrid this summer to help reinforce the defense, and adding Alvaro Carreras to the list would be a dream transfer window for Los Blancos.
However, there are still some questions surrounding his potential arrival. The defender has a €50 million release clause in his contract with Benfica, however, Real Madrid hope to negotiate a lower fee to secure his signature.