RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 5 sourcesReal Madrid will not sign new defender until current player leaves
In the coming weeks, Real Madrid are hoping to finalise deals for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande and Manchester City midfielder Rodri. That would take their summer signings to six, although there is still a chance that one further player arrives before the transfer window closes at the end of August.
Head coach Jose Mourinho has been keen to bring in a second central defender alongside the already-signed Ibrahima Konate. It is an area where there were concerns last season, and the Portuguese believes that extra quality is required – especially as Eder Militao will miss the start of the new campaign due to injury.
The likes of Alessandro Bastoni and Nico Schlotterbeck have been linked with Real Madrid, but according to Sergio Valentin , there will be no second centre-back signing unless current defender Raul Asencio leaves.
Mourinho has already informed Asencio that he is not part of his plans for the new season. The 23-year-old, whose aggressive style of play was seen by many as making him a good fit for the new era, is behind Konate, Militao, Antonio Rudiger and Dean Huijsen in the centre-back pecking order, and thus, he’s been urged to consider leaving this summer.
Ligue 1 loan option emerges for Asencio
In the last 24 hours, Asencio has attracted interest from Ligue 1 giants Marseille , who are interested in taking him on loan for the 2026-27 season. A temporary arrangement would appeal to the defender as he still has ambitions to succeed at the Bernabeu, and his situation could be re-evaluated next summer if he impresses in France.
Mourinho will be pushing Real Madrid to secure an exit for Asencio, as it will open up the chance to sign a replacement. It remains to be seen whether there is movement in the coming weeks, but the Portuguese will certainly hope so.
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