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Newcastle United: PIF have held Marco Asensio talks
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) Public Investment Fund (PIF) have ‘already held talks’ over potentially signing Marco Asensio for Newcastle United.
The Lowdown: Wasted potential?
It has not been the easiest of journeys for Asensio, after showing a lot of promise when Real Madrid beat fierce rivals FC Barcelona to his signature from Real Mallorca as an 18-year-old.
Now 26, while he has won three UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles apiece in the Spanish capital (Transfermarkt), he has largely been a bit-part player there, having never reached double figures for assists in a league campaign, while his highest goal tally for a single season is ten from last term (Transfermarkt).
Once dubbed a ‘magical’ player by teammate Casemiro, and recently hailed as ‘spectacular‘ by his former agent Horacio Gaggioli, the Spain international still has a lot to give, but his next club will be very important in terms of kickstarting his career again.
The Latest: Talks held
Taking to Twitter, Calciomercato transfer insider Rudy Galetti has revealed that the St. James’ Park outfit have ‘already held talks’ with Asensio’s entourage over a potential move, adding that he ‘could leave’ Los Blancos this summer:
“#Newcastle put in their sight #Asensio: the club has already held talks with his entourage. #NUFC The player – expiring in 2023 – could leave #RealMadrid this summer.”
The Verdict: Risky
Given his struggles at Madrid, it would be risky for the North East club to bring Asensio in.
Should Newcastle sign Asensio?
Yes
No
However, if Eddie Howe can get a tune out of the right-winger, then it could turn out to be a phenomenal signing.
As Galetti mentions, he only has one year left on his contract, and so Madrid could sell him at a cut-price, which would suit the Magpies as they seek to improve the calibre of the squad without obliterating any FFP guidelines.
This is certainly a fun one to keep an eye on as we tick close to the final month of the transfer window.
