Liverpool could reportedly make a move to sign Real Madrid’s Marco Asensio on a Bosman transfer next summer, with Jurgen Klopp believed to be a huge fan of the Spain international.
According to a report from the Sunday Mirror (via the Boot Room), Liverpool are weighing up a free transfer swoop for Real Madrid attacker Marco Asensio as he nears the expiry of his contract with the reigning Spanish and European champions.
The Reds have been keeping track of the Spanish international for some time now and could consider a move at the end of the season, with Jurgen Klopp believed to be a big admirer of the forward.
Despite hitting double figures in La Liga for the first time in his career last season, Asensio has not enjoyed the best of spells at Real Madrid lately and currently finds himself playing a fringe role. He has dropped down in the pecking order amid dwindling form and a slew of unfortunate injuries. Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo’s rapid ascent haven’t helped his chances of getting regular minutes either.
As a consequence, the playmaker has played only 426 minutes of football this season for Real Madrid. Of his 15 appearances, just three have been starts. Still, he has played the role of an impact substitute, being involved in six goals.
Talks over a new deal broke down earlier this year owing to his extravagant wage demands. In the aftermath of negotiations falling through, the 26-year-old star tried to force an exit from the club last summer, but to no avail despite rumoured interest from several suitors.
While there have been talks of a fresh round of discussions between both parties over an extension, many still expect him to depart Real Madrid in the near future, with Los Blancos eyeing Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane as a possible replacement.
Currently, on international duty for Spain in the World Cup, Asensio has been a key member of Luis Enrique’s squad and has the opportunity to put himself in the shop window with the January window just around the corner.
Given his contractual situation, Asensio could be available this winter for a significantly reduced price and will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with overseas European clubs in case he does not renew his deal at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The report adds that although the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is planning meetings with Juventus and Bayern Munich, Liverpool are also likely to make a play to get Asensio on a free transfer as Klopp looks to bolster his attack.
The Reds only signed Darwin Nunez to compensate for the departures of Takumi Minamino, Sadio Mane, and Divock Origi last summer. This has left them a bit short in the attacking department, which has contributed to their inconsistent start to the current season.
Liverpool views Asensio as an ideal target owing to his extensive expertise at the highest level of football, his versatility, as well as his offensive talents, which could help the club’s creative acumen in the final third.
He would be a great asset to Klopp’s side as he can even slot into a midfield three—an area of concern for them this season—while he can also provide cover and competition for attacking players. However, luring him to Anfield might not be easy, as Arsenal, Juventus, and Bayern are also involved in the race.
