Aston Villa have emerged as a potential suitor for Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio, according to reports, as the club prepares for a hectic conclusion to the summer transfer window. The 28-year-old Spain international is believed to be available for a reduced transfer fee, with his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu set to expire next summer.
Villa's Transfer Ambitions
Unai Emery's side have already been active in the market this summer, but the manager is keen to add further attacking reinforcements before the deadline. Asensio, who has won three Champions League titles with Real Madrid, would bring a wealth of experience and a proven goal threat to Villa Park.
According to Spanish outlet AS, Real Madrid are open to selling Asensio this month rather than losing him for nothing in 2023. The player has been unable to secure a regular starting spot under Carlo Ancelotti, and a move to the Premier League could appeal to the former Mallorca youngster.
Competition for Asensio's Signature
Villa are not alone in their interest, however. Several other Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Arsenal, have been linked with Asensio in the past. The winger's versatility – he can play on either flank or as an attacking midfielder – makes him an attractive option for many top-flight sides.
Emery is believed to be a long-time admirer of Asensio, having previously tried to sign him during his time at Paris Saint-Germain. The Villa boss is keen to strengthen his squad depth as he looks to build on a successful first full season in charge, which saw the club finish seventh in the Premier League.
Financial Considerations
Real Madrid are reportedly asking for around €30 million (£25 million) for Asensio, a significant drop from his market value of a few years ago. Villa have the financial resources to meet that asking price, but they may face competition from other European clubs.
Asensio's wage demands could also be a stumbling block, with the player currently earning a substantial salary in Madrid. However, Villa have shown they are willing to pay top wages for the right players, having brought in the likes of Philippe Coutinho and Diego Carlos in recent windows.
Villa's Other Transfer Targets
Asensio is not the only player on Villa's radar as the deadline approaches. The club are also understood to be interested in a new left-back and a central midfielder, with Emery keen to add more quality to his squad.
Villa have already signed four players this summer, including Boubacar Kamara and Robin Olsen, but Emery is eager to continue strengthening. The club's sporting director, Johan Lange, is working closely with the manager to identify targets and get deals over the line.
Asensio's Career at Real Madrid
Asensio joined Real Madrid from Mallorca in 2014 and has since made over 250 appearances for the club, scoring more than 50 goals. He has won numerous trophies, including three Champions League titles and three La Liga titles, and has been capped 38 times by Spain.
Despite his impressive pedigree, Asensio has struggled to hold down a regular place in recent seasons, with injuries and competition from the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo limiting his opportunities. A move to Villa could offer him the chance to reignite his career and play a key role in a project on the rise.
With the transfer window closing in just over a week, Villa will need to move quickly if they are to secure Asensio's signature. The club's fans will be hoping that Emery can pull off a marquee signing to add to the optimism around Villa Park.
