BT Sport pundit Steve McManaman has backed Arsenal to be in the running for Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio’s signature next summer.
The 25-year-old (who is valued at £31.5m by Transfermarkt) will have one year left on his contract at the Bernabeu in June and McManaman feels a move to the Gunners could happen:
“If it was a club next year I’d say it would be Arsenal. Aubameyang’s coming to the end of his career – or he’s certainly into his thirties – and with Lacazette in a similar position and coming to the end of his contract, Asensio could be at a club where he’d probably have more joy of playing. If he’s to leave in 18 months, it’s still a long, long way away. But I think he’s an Arsenal type of player, like an Odegaard, who’s good on the ball, not necessarily really quick, but turns well, scores goals and makes chances.”
Asensio has not been able to realise his full potential at Real, but he is still a very good player, having scored three goals in 10 appearances so far this campaign.
One thing that would count against a move to the Emirates is the fact that his favoured position is on the right-wing, cutting in onto his stronger left foot.
Considering that is where Bukayo Saka plays, it would be a big surprise if Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta would consider bringing in a high profile player like Asensio who would directly compete with the England international for a place in the starting eleven.
