Real Madrid Eyes Marco Asensio for Sensational La Liga Return Amid Intense Transfer Race
Marco Asensio, once a bright spark at Real Madrid, is back in the spotlight as the La Liga giants renew their pursuit for his signature this summer. The Spain international, currently at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has caught the attention of multiple clubs with an intriguing battle emerging for his services ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Asensio’s Journey: From Madrid Glory to PSG Struggles
Formerly a key figure at Real Madrid with multiple Champions League titles, Asensio’s career took a turn when he joined PSG in 2023 on a free transfer. Despite PSG’s recent domestic and European success—winning Ligue 1 and their first-ever Champions League—Asensio has found it challenging to cement a prominent role, managing just 7 goals in 47 appearances.
In the 2024/25 season, Asensio experienced a loan spell at Aston Villa where he displayed glimpses of his quality, scoring 3 goals in 13 Premier League appearances. However, Villa opted not to extend or make his move permanent after narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification.
Frenzied Transfer Race: Real Madrid, Villarreal, AC Milan & Fenerbahce
With his PSG contract expiring in 2026, the French club is keen to sell to avoid losing Asensio for free. Several clubs have expressed interest:
- Real Madrid: Keen on bringing back a seasoned winger with creativity and experience to bolster their squad ambitions in La Liga and Europe.
- Villarreal: Back in the Champions League and boosted financially by key player sales, Villarreal seeks Asensio’s attacking creativity as they rebuild under manager Marcelino.
- AC Milan: The Italian giants have renewed talks with PSG, showing serious intent to secure Asensio on a permanent basis, potentially for around €15 million.
- Fenerbahce: Coached by Jose Mourinho, the Turkish side is close to agreeing a deal, having already offered about €15 million, though PSG’s valuation reportedly remains higher.
Despite Fenerbahce’s strong interest and advanced negotiations, Asensio is reportedly hesitant to move to Turkey and is waiting for more appealing options within Europe.
What’s Next for Asensio?
Asensio faces a pivotal summer decision. Returning to Real Madrid could reignite his career at the club where he flourished, offering him a platform to showcase his talents in a familiar environment. Meanwhile, Villarreal presents an opportunity for regular first-team football and a role as a creative linchpin. AC Milan remains a viable contender for a move back to a top European league, while the potential move to Fenerbahce could provide a new challenge in the Turkish Super Lig but seems less favored by the player.
PSG’s urgency to finalize Asensio’s future adds momentum to the transfer saga, as they prefer a transfer this summer rather than risk losing him on a free in 2026.
Marco Asensio’s Recent Performance Snapshot
| Club | Season | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aston Villa (loan) | 2024/25 | 13 (Premier League) | 3 |
| Paris Saint-Germain | 2023–2025 | 47 | 7 |
PSG’s Decision and Squad Context
Despite their domestic dominance and first-ever UEFA Champions League title in 2024/25, PSG’s squad does not revolve around Asensio’s contributions, prompting the club to entertain transfer offers. Their preferred transfer fee exceeds the €15 million bids on the table.
The Stakes for Interested Clubs
- Real Madrid: Strengthening wingers with a player who understands the club’s Champions League ambitions.
- Villarreal: Reconstructing a competitive side post financial boost and looking for creative spark.
- AC Milan: Aiming to add depth and experience on the wings as part of their resurgence.
- Fenerbahce: Adding European experience and attacking prowess under Jose Mourinho’s strategic leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marco Asensio returning to Real Madrid?
Real Madrid has shown renewed interest in Asensio this summer, though no deal is finalized. The club views him as a valuable option to strengthen their squad creatively.
Why is Paris Saint-Germain selling Marco Asensio?
PSG wants to sell Asensio to avoid losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires in 2026 and because he is not central to their current squad plans.
Which clubs are interested in signing Asensio?
Besides Real Madrid, interested clubs include Villarreal, AC Milan, and Fenerbahce, with negotiations and offers underway.
What is the expected transfer fee for Asensio?
Offers around €15 million have been reported, though PSG’s valuation could be higher.
How did Marco Asensio perform recently?
He scored 3 goals in 13 appearances on loan at Aston Villa, and 7 goals in 47 appearances for PSG since 2023, showing glimpses but struggling for consistent prominence.