Revealed: Real Madrid identify Asensio replacement

Cameron Smith

• 29 Nov 2022 06:50 CST
• 3 min read

Real Madrid have reportedly identified their ideal replacement for Spanish international Marco Asensio should he leave the club next year.

The 26-year-old's contract at the Santiago Bernabeu is set to expire next summer, and it's believed that he may not sign a new deal. This means that Real Madrid could be set to lose him on a free transfer, leaving them with a space to fill in their attack, especially given the summer departures of Luka Jovic and Gareth Bale.

Asensio was linked with moves to AC Milan and Liverpool during the summer, but ended up staying put in the Spanish capital, with an eye on potentially leaving for free in 2023.

READ: Pedri calls on Real Madrid star to join him at Barca

The forward has been used in a central striker role by Luis Enrique at the 2022 World Cup, and has impressed so far, grabbing one goal in Spain's opening two group stage matches.

However, he hasn't been able to become a mainstay in Carlo Ancelotti's side despite racking up a decent number of appearances this campaign. Karim Benzema's injury woes have allowed Asensio to feature more regularly than usual, but he still isn't in Los Blancos' preferred attacking line-up.

Ancelotti has reportedly discussed Asensio's role in the team with the player and he may well decide to stay at the club after all, but Real Madrid have prepared for his departure anyway.

READ: Asensio piles pressure on Real Madrid as Spain smash Costa Rica

Who could Real Madrid sign to replace Asensio?

While Asensio himself has been linked with a sensational move to Barcelona, Real Madrid have looked further afield for a potential replacement, with Bayern Munich's Leroy Sane the preferred option, according to Fichajes.

Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe has perennially been linked with a move to Real Madrid, but he recently signed a contract extension in the French capital, and it now seems a move to the Bernabeu is unlikely.

As a result, Sane has been linked with a move thanks to his impressive form under Julian Nagelsmann at the Allianz Arena. The Germany international has 10 goals and six assists so far this season and that form has enticed Real Madrid to pursue a move.

However, the German does have a contract at Bayern that runs until 2025, so it may be slightly pricey to lure him away from the Bundesliga giants.