In a significant transfer decision, Marco Asensio has made up his mind to join Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) once his contract with Real Madrid expires this summer. The 27-year-old midfielder has reached a long-term agreement with PSG and is set to earn an annual salary of €10 million (£8.5 million) through a combination of salary and bonuses with the French club.
While Asensio’s contract has not been officially signed yet, the completion of the move is anticipated following Real Madrid’s final La Liga match of the season against Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday.
Asensio, an international player for Spain, had attracted strong interest from Premier League club Aston Villa, who were prepared to offer him a lucrative alternative. However, it seems that the French champions have emerged as the victors in the race to secure his signature.
The midfielder had been engaged in negotiations with Real Madrid since the beginning of the year regarding a new contract. Although he had a contract extension proposal on the table, Asensio ultimately decided against renewing his deal.
Having arrived at Real Madrid from Mallorca in 2014, Asensio has been associated with the club for seven years. This season, he has made 50 appearances for the La Liga side, scoring 12 goals and providing eight assists. Throughout his tenure in the Spanish capital, Asensio has amassed an impressive collection of 17 major trophies, including three Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and one Copa del Rey, among others.
Beyond financial considerations, Asensio’s departure from Real Madrid is driven by his footballing ambitions. He seeks to feel significant and, in discussions with Carlo Ancelotti, who expressed a desire for him to stay, Asensio realized that he wouldn’t have the prominence he desires. Ancelotti appreciates Asensio’s decision, recognizing his non-conformist nature.
With Asensio’s impending departure and the likely exits of Mariano Diaz and Karim Benzema, Real Madrid will have limited attacking options remaining, relying mainly on Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Federico Valverde, who intends to return to the midfield.
It is worth noting that Ancelotti and the club do not consider Eden Hazard as part of their plans, as confirmed by reports from The Athletic and the player himself, who intends to run down his contract. Real Madrid is currently engaged in contract renewal talks with Brahim Diaz, who has been on loan at AC Milan for the past three seasons. Diaz, a 23-year-old Spanish player, now has an increased chance of being part of the squad for the upcoming season. The club is also exploring the market for potential reinforcements.
On the other hand, PSG will acquire a player who is currently enjoying the best form of his career, having delivered outstanding performances in the latter half of the season. Asensio’s shooting prowess is a notable aspect of his game, although he can sometimes display inconsistency and lack dynamism in his play.
Asensio is known for his versatility, capable of operating in various positions across the frontline or as an attacking midfielder, although he has most frequently been deployed on the right wing for Real Madrid. He has showcased his ability to score stunning long-range goals during his tenure in the Spanish capital, and this season, he has impressively contributed 12 goals in all competitions despite being a rotational option. Nevertheless, Real Madrid supporters may still feel a sense of unfulfilled potential, considering the high expectations that surrounded Asensio when he first arrived from Mallorca in 2014.
