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.

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.