Real Madrid have done a very good job of retaining ownership of youngsters they sell to other clubs, and it looks like they could be in line for another windfall.
Los Blancos could be watching Sergio Arribas' future with interest, as Benfica are keen on signing the former academy talent.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola (h/t AS ), Benfica want to sign Arribas from UD Almeria, who are asking for around €20 million.
The important detail for Real Madrid is that the club still own 50% of Arribas' rights. That means any transfer could bring useful income back to the Bernabeu.
Arribas left Real Madrid to find the minutes he was unlikely to get in the first team, and his development away from Valdebebas has kept his market value alive.
This is exactly why Real Madrid often structure academy exits carefully. Not every La Fabrica player can stay, but the club can still protect future value.
Arribas likely to leave Almeria. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)
If Almeria sell Arribas for €20 million, Real Madrid's 50% stake would become very relevant, leaving them with a €10 million windfall.
It could be a meaningful financial return without needing to move a player from the current squad.
That matters in a summer where Madrid are trying to balance arrivals, exits and squad planning under Jose Mourinho.
It also shows that letting academy players leave is not always a loss. Sometimes the smart move is allowing them to grow elsewhere while keeping control of part of their future.
For Arribas, Benfica would be an exciting step. The Portuguese club are known for giving technical players a platform, and they regularly compete in Europe.
Real Madrid stand to benefit from Arribas' transfer. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)
His profile fits that kind of environment: creative, left-footed, intelligent between the lines and capable of making things happen in the final third.
The key now is whether Benfica meet Almeria's asking price.
If a €20 million deal happens, Real Madrid will have another example of good academy asset management. Los Blancos have already earned over to €100 million this summer from deals involving former players.
Arribas may no longer be at the Bernabeu, but his next move could still help Real Madrid.
