Report: Liverpool Enquire About Benfica Star Amid Left-Back Succession Plans | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Left-Back Search: Interest in Benfica’s Álvaro Carreras

Liverpool are already looking ahead to the future, with reports emerging that the club has made contact with Benfica regarding left-back Álvaro Carreras. With Andy Robertson turning 31 before the season ends, the Reds are assessing their options to reinforce a position that has been key to their tactical setup.

Jornal de Notícias has reported that Liverpool, alongside Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, have enquired about Carreras, though Benfica chose not to entertain negotiations during the winter window. However, with a summer rebuild on the horizon, the situation could evolve.

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Long-Term Successor to Andy Robertson

Robertson has been a vital cog in Liverpool’s system since arriving from Hull City in 2017, but as with any high-intensity player, age and physical demands will naturally lead to succession planning. While the Scotland captain remains a crucial figure, the club is proactively seeking long-term reinforcements.

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Liverpool have been linked with Premier League-based options like Antonee Robinson (Fulham) and Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth), but the opportunity to sign a young, high-potential talent from abroad could appeal. Carreras fits that mould.

Photo: IMAGO

At just 21 years old, the Spaniard has impressed in Portugal since making a €6 million move from Manchester United last summer, quickly establishing himself as a key performer in both the Primeira Liga and the Champions League.

Benfica’s Reluctance to Sell

Benfica have a well-earned reputation for maximising player sales, with their ability to command high fees for developing stars well documented. Carreras is no exception, with a reported €50m release clause embedded in his contract.

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Jornal de Notícias stated:

“Several European giants, including Bayern Munich, Liverpool, PSG and Chelsea, recently contacted Benfica to find out about the negotiation conditions for Álvaro Carreras and Tomás Araújo, JN found out.”

However, the report clarifies that Benfica had “no desire to enter into negotiations” during the final days of the transfer window. Whether that stance softens in the summer remains to be seen.

European Interest Growing

Liverpool are not alone in monitoring Carreras, with reports indicating that Real Madrid also hold an interest. Having spent time in the Spanish club’s youth system before moving to Manchester United, Carreras has already been on the radar of elite clubs.

Despite not breaking through at Old Trafford, his loan spells at Preston, Granada, and Benfica helped shape his development, culminating in a permanent switch to Portugal. His performances this season—33 appearances, three goals, and four assists—underline his progress and potential.

A Deal for the Summer?

Liverpool’s left-back succession plan is in motion, and with Benfica standing firm in January, attention now shifts to the summer window. If the club does push forward with a move for Carreras, they may need to meet the €50m release clause or negotiate favourable terms—something that is never straightforward with Benfica.

For now, Liverpool’s interest remains just that—interest. But as the need for a Robertson successor grows, Álvaro Carreras is emerging as a serious contender.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index: Álvaro Carreras’ Performance Data Breakdown

Álvaro Carreras has emerged as a promising full-back, and his performance data, provided by Fbref, highlights his strengths and areas for development. With growing interest in his progress, this statistical analysis provides insight into his contributions across attacking, possession, and defensive metrics.

Attacking Impact and Creativity

Carreras’ attacking stats reflect a full-back capable of contributing in the final third. His expected assisted goals (xAG) ranks in the 60th percentile, showing solid playmaking ability, while his assist numbers (72nd percentile) confirm his creative presence. However, his non-penalty expected goals (npxG) sits at just 26, suggesting he is more of a provider than a direct goal threat.

His shot-creating actions (53rd percentile) are respectable, but there is still room for improvement if he is to develop into a more complete offensive full-back.

Possession and Ball Progression

One of Carreras’ standout qualities is his ability to progress the ball effectively. He ranks 94th percentile for successful take-ons, demonstrating elite dribbling ability for a full-back. His progressive passes received (77th percentile) and progressive passes (69th percentile) suggest he is an effective outlet in possession.

With a pass completion rate of 75%, he is relatively efficient in distribution, though his 40th percentile in progressive carries indicates he is more reliant on passing than direct ball progression.

Defensive Contributions and Challenges

Carreras’ defensive stats present a mixed picture. His clearances (87th percentile) and blocks (90th percentile) suggest strong defensive awareness, but his tackles and interceptions (48th percentile) highlight potential vulnerabilities.

He wins just 26% of aerial duels, a weakness that could be exploited, particularly in the Premier League. His ability to tackle dribblers (only 1st percentile) is a concern, hinting at difficulties in one-on-one defensive situations.

Overall, Carreras’ stats highlight a dynamic, forward-thinking full-back with strengths in progression and creativity. However, there are clear defensive concerns that any club pursuing him must consider.