'Make us an offer!' - Real Madrid told to pay up for Alvaro Carreras as Benfica president denies bid despite left-back's agreement with La Liga giants

Benfica president Rui Costa spoke about Madrid's interest in signing their left-back Carreras and stated that they are waiting for an offer from the Spanish side. His words suggested that, contrary to reports from the Spanish media, the Portuguese giants are yet to receive any bids.

Carreras has a €50 million (£43m/$58m) release clause in his contract, with Benfica demanding the fee to be paid in full. The Eagles are, however, open to negotiating and would accept a fee in the region of €48m (£41m/$55m). Madrid, however, are not willing to pay more than €40m (£34m/$46m) for their former academy product. Benfica's stubbornness with regards to Carreras' transfer fee has reportedly prompted Madrid to look for solutions elsewhere, with Bayer Leverkusen left-back Alex Grimaldo — who played under current head coach Xabi Alonso — being touted as a cheaper but high-quality alternative.

Speaking to Marca, Costa said: "should make us an offer. None have come so far. If they do, we'll see what happens. Now is not the time, and it won't be until the tournament and our participation are over. Until then, there's no need to talk about anything. Carreras is here with us."

It is unlikely that there will be further developments in the Carreras-Madrid transfer saga before the end of the Club World Cup. Benfica have already booked their place in the round of 16, where they will face Chelsea. Los Blancos are also expected to progress to the next round as they gear up for their must-win game against RB Salzburg in the early hours of Friday.