[Real Madrid](https://www.managingmadrid.com) has officially announced the departure of Rafael Obrador, who has joined Portuguese giants Benfica on a permanent deal. The 21-year-old left-back has signed a long-term contract that runs until June 30, 2030.
While this transfer stands on its own, it could also be a key piece in a broader negotiation between the two clubs — namely, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Álvaro Carreras. Obrador’s move to Lisbon may be part of a strategic agreement to help smooth over the final stages of a potential Carreras transfer to Madrid.
Real Madrid had hoped to secure Carreras before the Club World Cup, but negotiations stalled due to a disagreement over the fee. Benfica were firm in demanding the €50 million release clause, while Madrid reportedly countered with offers in the €35–40 million range. The two clubs have remained in contact, and now, with the Obrador deal completed, it appears a breakthrough on the Carreras front may be imminent. An official announcement is still pending, and it’s unclear whether any financial adjustments have been made as part of a package deal.
Obrador arrived at Real Madrid’s academy from RCD Mallorca in October 2020 and spent several seasons with Castilla, the club’s B team. Last season, he was loaned out to Deportivo La Coruña in the Segunda División, but never made an official appearance for Real Madrid’s senior side. Still, the 1.81m defender showed enough promise to earn a move to a top European club in Benfica, where he’ll look to continue his development.
Real Madrid, as they often do with their academy exports, are expected to have included some form of future rights — whether a buy-back option, a sell-on clause, or both — as part of the deal. While Obrador didn’t break into the first team, his departure could ultimately play a role in helping Los Blancos secure their left-back of the future.
We’ll continue to monitor developments in the Álvaro Carreras negotiations as they unfold.