Manchester United 'considering move for Marco Asensio'

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a summer move for Real Madrid forward Marco Asensio.

Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag is determined to boost his attacking options in the current market regardless of whether Cristiano Ronaldo stays at the club beyond the deadline.

The 20-time English champions appear to have been priced out of a move for Antony due to Ajax's high valuation, and according to Mundo Deportivo, Asensio has now emerged as a genuine target for the club.

The Spain international's current deal at Bernabeu is due to expire next June, and it is believed that he is free to leave the La Liga and European champions during this summer's transfer window.

Liverpool, Arsenal and AC Milan have also been credited with an interest in the attacker, who could potentially be available for around £25m this summer due to his contract situation.

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Asensio has scored 49 goals and registered 24 assists in 235 appearances for Real Madrid since arriving from Mallorca in 2014, winning three La Liga titles and three Champions League crowns during a successful spell.

The Spaniard has struggled for consistency since suffering a serious knee injury in a pre-season clash with Arsenal in July 2019, though, and he is now behind both Rodrygo and Federico Valverde when it comes to a starting role in Real Madrid's front three.

Asensio was still heavily involved for Carlo Ancelotti's side during the 2021-22 campaign, though, making 42 appearances in all competitions, contributing 12 goals and two assists in the process.

"Renew or leave Real Madrid? I think there are three possibilities, there is also the option to stay and fulfil my contract year," Asensio told Marca earlier this summer.

"My future does not have to depend on whether or not I will have a place in the next World Cup. Rumours are part of football, and more so at Real Madrid. High-level players are always associated with it. Many players come out every summer and it's something we have to live with."

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Man United continue to battle to keep hold of Ronaldo, with the Portugal international allegedly making it clear to the Red Devils that he is still determined to move on this summer.

Mason Greenwood remains suspended by the club, leaving Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Anthony Martial and Anthony Elanga as the senior attacking options for new head coach Erik ten Hag.

Man United have already signed three players this summer, bringing in Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Lisandro Martinez, while they continue to work on a deal for Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong.

A largely first-choice side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in a pre-season friendly on Saturday.

Man United will now conclude their preparations for the 2022-23 campaign against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, with Ronaldo set to feature in a second-string outfit.