31 May 2023 , 12:10
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Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos has admitted that he has a ‘feeling’ that Marco Asensio is on the way out of the Spanish club amid links with Arsenal.
The winger’s contract expires this summer and he has plenty of suitors attempting to seal his services on a free transfer. Former Arsenal boss Unai Emery is attempting to take Asensio to Aston Villa, whilst Juventus and AC Milan have also been credited with an interest.
The Gunners have long been admirers of the 27-year-old with reports in February indicating that Mikel Arteta was a fan and talks had already been held with his representatives. The race is certainly still on to sign him but Kroos has suggested that he is not hopeful of Asensio staying at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Speaking to Total Real, the German midfielder said: “It’s difficult to say what will happen with Nacho, [Dani] Ceballos and Asensio, to be honest. I have a feeling that Marco might not stay, but also more from outside reports than inside [knowledge].
“In terms of Nacho and Dani, I have no idea. But I have a feeling. I’d be happy if they stayed.”
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Asensio has enjoyed another productive season in the Spanish capital this term ahead of a potential exit. The 35-time Spanish international scored 12 goals and notched eight assists in all competitions throughout the campaign, helping Real to the Club World Cup and the Copa del Rey.
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Whilst Kroos has admitted that his teammate could be set for an exit, boss Carlo Ancelotti was slightly more tight-lipped on Asensio’s future.
Asked recently about the forward’s contractual situation, he said: “I don’t know anything about Asensio, just as I don’t know anything about the rest who have just signed a contract. Before the last game everything will be clarified.
“On a personal level, it is a bit sad that they are leaving because they are very important players for us. After they decide what they will do, we will plan for next season.”
Amid questions over his future, Asensio has one final opportunity to leave a lasting impression at Real Madrid. They take on Athletic Club in their final league game of the campaign this weekend and will hope to rubber-stamp the runners’-up spot with victory.
Asensio might not be the only forward to leave Real Madrid this summer. Karim Benzema has also been linked with an exit.
Reports have suggested that he is considering his future with the Spanish giants after receiving an offer from a Saudi club. He could potentially join former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in the Gulf state should he choose to bring his long and successful career in Madrid to an end.