Marco Asensio 'performs Real Madrid contract U-turn'

Marco Asensio is reportedly close to signing a new contract at Real Madrid despite being heavily linked with a move away from the Spanish and European champions.

The Spain international's future was the subject of much discussion over the summer, with the likes of AC Milan, Arsenal and Manchester United believed to have shown an interest in his services.

There has again been speculation ahead of the January transfer window, with Barcelona thought to be keeping a close eye on his situation at Bernabeu, as the Catalan outfit consider a shock move.

Asensio's current deal is due to expire next June, and it had been thought that he would leave the capital giants on a free transfer in search of pastures new.

However, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti recently suggested that Asensio could sign a new contract.

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According to Marca, there has been a U-turn when it comes to his future, with the attacker now preparing to sign a new long-term deal in the Spanish capital.

The report claims that Asensio has always prioritised staying at Bernabeu despite being aware that he could potentially earn more money by moving elsewhere.

The forward was a vital player for Los Blancos during the 2021-22 campaign, making 42 appearances in all competitions, contributing 12 goals and two assists in the process.

Asensio scored 10 times in La Liga as the capital giants lifted the title, while he also contributed one goal and two assists in the team's Champions League winning campaign.

The attacker has made 13 appearances this season, contributing two goals and two assists in the process, but he has not started a single game in La Liga during the 2022-23 campaign.

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Asensio has featured from the start in just one of the team's five Champions League group games this term, meanwhile, having dropped down the pecking order.

Ancelotti's first-choice front three is currently Federico Valverde, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior, while Rodrygo is also ahead of Asensio in terms of the starting spots in attack.

Despite his struggles for regular action this term, Asensio was involved for Spain during the recent international break, and he is expected to be named in the La Roja squad for the World Cup.

The former Mallorca youngster has made 248 appearances for Real Madrid since his arrival in 2015, contributing 51 goals and 26 assists in the process.

Asensio came on as a second-half substitute in his side's 1-1 draw with Girona at Bernabeu in La Liga on Sunday, conceding a penalty for a handball late on, with Cristhian Stuani converting to earn the visitors a point.