The back three that will play the World Cup with Real Madrid, Xabi Alonso gives the OK

Real Madrid already plans the Club World Cup with a completely renewed defense. It is not a system with three center-backs. These are three defensive signings that will arrive for the tournament. All endorsed by Xabi Alonso.

The first was Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will occupy the right flank.  The second, Dean Huijsen, already confirmed for the center of the defense. The third, yet to be announced, will be Álvaro Carreras for the left side.

Key reinforcements for Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso demanded guarantees. The club has replied. Real Madrid committed to securing three defensive signings before the World Cup. They are keeping it.

Alexander-Arnold already said yes. Liverpool resists, but the player wants to go to Madrid. He will do so as a free agent.

Only the final agreement is missing to incorporate him in the window enabled for the Club World Cup. The cost will be low:  about 2 million euros, including his salary for the month of June.

Dean Huijsen, coming from Bournemouth, is already confirmed as a Real Madrid player. He will cost 58.5 million euros, and he will be in the United States with Xabi Alonso from the start.

The last name is Álvaro Carreras. The operation is not yet closed, but it is 90% done. At Madrid, they trust everything will be finalized after the Copa final.

Operation Carreras, almost closed

Carreras belongs to Benfica, but United has a buyback right. Here lies the complexity. The English club can reclaim him for 18 million. Subsequently, they could sell him to Madrid for about 30 or 35 million.

A move that would benefit both United and Real Madrid. Benfica, on the other hand, would lose the player for a low cost, although they would profit after paying only 6 million.

The conversations between the three clubs have been intense. But Real Madrid already has the player's "yes". Only details are missing.

The new defense for the World Cup

This defense is not an alternative. It will be starting in the World Cup debut. Carvajal and Militao remain injured. Rüdiger and Alaba will arrive late. Mendy is ruled out.

Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, and Carreras will form the base of Xabi Alonso's team. It will be their first trial by fire. A new beginning. A new defense.

What seemed like an emergency has turned into an opportunity. Madrid keeps its word. Xabi Alonso will have his defense to conquer the world.