Xabi Alonso reunion incoming! Real Madrid target Bayer Leverkusen star amid breakdown in pursuit of Benfica full-back Alvaro Carreras

Madrid’s negotiations with Benfica for Carreras have hit a dead end. Despite the player's interest in joining, the Eagles are firm on their €50 million (£42m/$57m) demand, a figure Madrid is unwilling to meet. According to Cadena SER, Los Blancos have turned their attention to Grimaldo of Bayer Leverkusen, who is eager to move back to Spain and reunite with his former coach.

La Liga giants Madrid are in urgent need of a reliable left-back. While Fran Garcia is expected to stay as a backup, Ferland Mendy’s future is still uncertain. Grimaldo, who has impressed in the Bundesliga and is familiar with Alonso’s system, presents a cheaper and possibly more seamless alternative to Carreras.

The 29-year-old came through Barcelona's La Masia academy before moving to Benfica and later joining Leverkusen where he scored 10 goals and provided seven assists last season as a left-back.

Madrid are expected to monitor Carreras’ situation but may open official talks with Grimaldo in the coming weeks. The Spanish full-back’s desire to return home, plus his relationship with Alonso, could accelerate a potential deal this summer.