Everton are reportedly interested in signing 23-year-old Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Everton will face competition from Napoli and Galatasaray in the race to sign Raul Asencio. The Italian and Turkish clubs are also hoping to sign the 23-year-old central defender this summer.
Asencio has struggled to secure regular opportunities at Real Madrid, and he needs to leave the club to play more often. It will be interesting to see if he is willing to move to Turkiye or Italy in the summer. The opportunity to play in the Premier League can be quite tempting for most players. Meanwhile, Everton are reportedly willing to pay €30 million for him.
Everton have done well this season
Everton have a competitive team, and they are pushing for a respectable finish in the Premier League this season. Adding a quality defender like Asencio will only help them improve further. The Merseyside outfit will be able to provide him with regular opportunities and a platform to compete at a high level.
Regular football in England could bring out the best in the 23-year-old and help him fulfil his potential. However, the Toffees are not quite at the level required to fight for major trophies. On the other hand, Galatasaray are fighting for the league title and competing in the UEFA Champions League every season.
The Turkish Super Lig club could be an attractive destination for Asencio. On the other hand, Napoli are the reigning Serie A champions, and they have a formidable team and a top-class manager like Antonio Conte.
Can Everton convince Asencio?
It remains to be seen whether Everton can convince Raul Asencio to join them instead. The 23-year-old defender needs regular gametime to continue his development. The youngster is a quality player with a lot of potential, and sitting on the bench at Real Madrid will be detrimental to his growth.
Asencio can operate as a central defender as well as a right back. He has two goals this season in just 15 La Liga starts. He should look to join a competitive team in the summer, where he can play regularly and compete for trophies. A move from Real Madrid to Everton might come across as a step down for the defender, and the opportunity to play for clubs like Napoli will be more attractive for him.